How can we share the message of eternal life with others? The Life-Giving Witness “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.” – 1 John 5:11 Know the Content: Eternal Life Defined • Eternal life is personal knowledge of God through Christ (John 17:3). • It is a present possession for believers, not merely future hope (John 3:36; 1 John 5:13). • It rests on the unchanging promise of God who cannot lie (Titus 1:2). Rest Secure in the Source • “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” – 1 John 5:12 • Salvation is exclusively in Jesus (Acts 4:12). • Confidence in the message flows from confidence in the Savior (Hebrews 10:19-23). Live the Message Before You Speak It • A consistent, joyful walk validates the words you share (Philippians 2:15-16). • Visible good works open ears to Gospel truth (Matthew 5:16). • Integrity in everyday tasks shows the transforming power of Christ (Colossians 3:23-24). Speak with Clarity and Conviction • State the essentials: – God’s holiness and mankind’s sin (Romans 3:23). – Christ’s substitutionary death and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). – The call to repent and believe (Mark 1:15; Romans 10:9-10). • Avoid jargon; explain terms like “sin,” “grace,” and “faith.” • Share your own testimony of receiving eternal life (Revelation 12:11). Use Scripture as Your Authority • “All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable…” – 2 Timothy 3:16. • The Word pierces hearts where arguments cannot (Hebrews 4:12). • Encourage others to read passages aloud; invite them to discover truth firsthand. Rely on the Spirit’s Power • “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses…” – Acts 1:8. • The Spirit convicts of sin and reveals Christ (John 16:8-11). • Confidence grows as you depend on His leading rather than personal skill (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). Engage Varied Settings • One-on-one conversations over coffee or a meal. • Family devotions and bedtime talks with children. • Digital platforms: brief Scriptures posted with thoughtful comments. • Small-group Bible studies with neighbors or coworkers. • Acts of service that naturally lead to explaining the hope within you (1 Peter 3:15). Practical Steps to Start Today 1. Memorize 1 John 5:11-12; let it shape your mindset. 2. Ask God daily for open doors and boldness (Colossians 4:3-4). 3. Keep a short written version of your testimony ready. 4. Carry a pocket Bible or app and highlight key verses. 5. Follow up; discipleship begins after the first conversation (Matthew 28:19-20). Anticipate God’s Results • God’s Word never returns empty (Isaiah 55:11). • Some will believe immediately, others later; your role is faithful sowing (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Rejoice that eternal life is God’s free gift offered through you to a world that desperately needs it (Romans 6:23). |