How can you confidently share your belief in Jesus as "the Christ"? Anchoring Verse “ But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that is in you, but respond with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3:15 Why Confidence Is Possible • Scripture is fully trustworthy (2 Timothy 3:16). • Jesus is definitively identified as “the Christ” (Matthew 16:16; John 20:31). • The gospel itself carries God’s power (Romans 1:16). Settle Christ’s Lordship in Your Heart • Yield every area of life to Jesus; confidence flows from obedience. • Daily worship and Scripture intake keep the heart aligned (Psalm 119:11). • When Christ is enthroned within, boldness becomes natural (Acts 4:13). Know the Core Message You’re Sharing 1. God created and loves humanity (Genesis 1:27; John 3:16). 2. Sin separates all people from Him (Romans 3:23). 3. Jesus, fully God and fully man, died for sins and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). 4. Salvation is received by repentance and faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9). 5. Eternal life and present transformation follow (2 Corinthians 5:17). Prepare Your Personal Testimony • Before Christ – a concise snapshot of life without Him. • How you met Christ – the moment you trusted Him as the Christ. • After Christ – tangible changes He has worked in you. • Keep it brief, authentic, and centered on Jesus rather than on yourself. Communicate with Gentleness and Respect • Listen well before speaking (James 1:19). • Avoid quarrels; kindness opens doors (2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Speak truth plainly, yet lovingly, remembering each listener bears God’s image. Depend on the Holy Spirit • He grants power for witness (Acts 1:8). • He reminds you of Scripture at the right moment (John 14:26). • Pray for His guidance before, during, and after conversations. Live the Message You Proclaim • Consistent character validates spoken words (Philippians 2:15-16). • Acts of service and compassion illustrate Christ’s love (Matthew 5:16). • Community with other believers provides visible evidence of the gospel’s reality (John 13:35). Overcoming Common Barriers • Fear of rejection — remember approval from God outweighs human opinions (Galatians 1:10). • Doubt about knowledge — you do not need every answer; point to the One who is the answer (John 14:6). • Past failures — confess, receive forgiveness, move forward; God delights in using redeemed people (1 John 1:9). Practical Next Steps • Memorize key gospel verses (Romans 6:23; John 3:16; 1 Peter 3:15). • Identify three people in your life who need Christ; look for natural opportunities to share. • Carry a small Bible or app to reference Scripture quickly. • Join or form a study group focused on evangelism for encouragement and accountability. |
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