How can we encourage others to call upon Jesus as the blind man did? Setting the Scene “Jesus of Nazareth is passing by” (Luke 18:37). The crowd’s simple report became the turning point for a blind beggar. Our role is to pass on that same announcement—clearly, urgently, hopefully. Highlighting Who Jesus Is • Identify Him: “Jesus, Son of David” (Luke 18:38) underscores His messianic authority. • Explain His heart: “He had compassion on them” (Matthew 14:14). • Point to His power: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Me” (Matthew 28:18). Sharing God’s Open Invitation • Romans 10:13—“Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” • Acts 2:21; Joel 2:32—promise repeated and guaranteed. • Psalm 50:15—“Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you.” Emphasize the word everyone. No one is excluded from this invitation. Modeling Transparent Need • Tell your own “blind spots” and how Christ met them. • Normalize desperation. The man shouted despite rebuke (Luke 18:39). • Encourage honesty: “You do not have because you do not ask God” (James 4:2b). Overcoming the Crowd’s Voices • Some will hush seekers (Luke 18:39). Prepare them for that. • Remind them Jesus stops for faith, not popularity (Luke 18:40). • Quote Galatians 1:10—seek God’s approval, not man’s. Guiding a Personal Cry for Mercy • Keep it simple: “Jesus, have mercy on me.” • Mercy acknowledges sin (Luke 18:13) and trusts grace (Ephesians 2:4-5). • Encourage use of His Name—there is “no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Practical Ways to Encourage Others • Share Scripture aloud; faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17). • Offer to read Luke 18:35-43 together, pausing to picture the scene. • Ask, “Where do you need Jesus to pass by today?” • Provide moments of silent reflection, then invite verbal prayer. • Sing or play hymns that focus on the Name of Jesus (e.g., “Turn Your Eyes upon Jesus”). • Celebrate small steps—thank God for any expression of faith. Expecting and Celebrating Answers • Luke 18:43—“Immediately he received his sight and followed Jesus, glorifying God.” • Encourage testimony; it builds others’ courage (Revelation 12:11). • Keep pointing back to the Healer, not the healed. Living as Heralds The crowd’s sentence was short, but eternity-changing. As we spread the word that Jesus is passing by—today, in every conversation—we give others the same life-giving chance to cry out, be heard, and be saved. |
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