How can we overcome barriers to sharing the Gospel with all people? Our Shared Obligation Romans 1:14: “I am obligated both to Greeks and barbarians, both to the wise and the foolish.” • Paul sees every person as someone he “owes” the good news. • The verse removes cultural, intellectual, and social distinctions—no one is outside our Gospel responsibility (cf. Romans 1:16). Common Barriers We Face • Prejudice—thinking some people are too different (Acts 10:34-35). • Fear—worry about rejection or hostility (2 Timothy 1:7). • Inadequacy—feeling unqualified to speak (Exodus 4:10-12). • Comfort—preferring familiar circles (Luke 15:25-32). • Busyness—letting schedules crowd out mission (Ephesians 5:15-16). Gospel Truths That Shatter Barriers • Christ purchased people “from every tribe and tongue” (Revelation 5:9). • Jesus Himself crossed ethnic and moral lines (John 4:4-26). • The same Spirit that raised Christ empowers our witness (Acts 1:8). • God’s Word never returns void (Isaiah 55:11). Practical Ways to Overcome Each Barrier Prejudice • Pray for God’s heart toward those we avoid. • Intentionally spend time with believers from different backgrounds. Fear • Memorize promises of divine presence (Matthew 28:20). • Share your testimony first; no one can dispute what Christ has done in you. Inadequacy • Rely on the Spirit’s wisdom (Luke 12:11-12). • Use simple tools: a short Gospel outline, a pocket New Testament. Comfort • Schedule regular outreach—put it on the calendar. • Invite a friend along; accountability stretches comfort zones. Busyness • View workplaces, schools, and errands as mission fields (Colossians 4:5-6). • Combine hospitality with normal life—meals, sports, hobbies. Adopting Paul’s Mindset • See yourself as a debtor, not a donor; you owe the Gospel, you don’t dispense charity. • Seek to “become all things to all people” so that some may be saved (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). • Let love, not duty, drive you (2 Corinthians 5:14). Encouragement to Keep Going • God “desires all men to be saved” (1 Timothy 2:4); you are joining His passion. • Success is faithfulness in sharing; results belong to Him (1 Corinthians 3:6-7). • Heaven will ring with praise from every nation because believers overcame these same barriers (Revelation 7:9-10). Closing Charge Embrace your Gospel debt with joy. Trust the Spirit’s power, lean on Scripture’s promises, and step into every conversation knowing the Lord has already prepared hearts to hear. |
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