How can you share the "word of truth, the gospel" with others today? Setting the Foundation: Colossians 1:5 “...the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you have already heard in the word of truth, the gospel.” Why the Gospel Is the “Word of Truth” • Reveals God’s unchanging character (Titus 1:2) • Announces Christ’s finished work—His death, burial, and resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) • Offers certain hope, not wishful thinking (Hebrews 6:19) Practical Ways to Share the Gospel Today • Share your testimony—how Christ rescued you (Mark 5:19) • Offer a clear, concise gospel summary: – God’s holiness (Isaiah 6:3) – Humanity’s sin (Romans 3:23) – Christ’s substitutionary sacrifice (2 Corinthians 5:21) – Call to repent and believe (Acts 17:30) • Hand out or text Scripture portions (John 20:31) • Invite friends to read a Gospel with you over coffee or video chat • Speak naturally about Jesus in everyday conversation—sports games, family news, work projects (Deuteronomy 6:7) Speaking the Gospel Clearly • Use plain language; avoid insider jargon (1 Corinthians 14:9) • Keep Christ central; focus on the cross and resurrection (1 Corinthians 2:2) • Ask permission to share; then speak with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15) • Rely on the Spirit’s power, not personal eloquence (1 Corinthians 2:4-5) Living the Gospel Consistently • Practice visible love and good works (Matthew 5:16) • Forgive quickly, mirroring God’s forgiveness (Ephesians 4:32) • Prioritize integrity—honest speech, ethical decisions (Proverbs 10:9) • Display joy anchored in heaven’s hope (Romans 15:13) Using Technology and Media Wisely • Share short gospel videos or articles on social platforms • Start a Bible-verse text thread or email devotional • Host an online Bible study; screen-share Scripture slides • Record testimony podcasts; keep them under five minutes for easy sharing Cultivating Relationships for Gospel Witness • Eat meals with neighbors and coworkers (Luke 15:2) • Join community groups or sports teams to build trust • Remember names, birthdays, and burdens; pray for them, then tell them you did • Practice patient, long-term conversations; gospel seeds often grow slowly (Mark 4:26-29) Trusting the Power of the Gospel • “I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes...” (Romans 1:16) • Share boldly, knowing results belong to God (1 Corinthians 3:6-7) • Rest in Christ’s promise: “I am with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20) Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Colossians 4:5-6—walk in wisdom, season speech with grace • 2 Timothy 4:2—“Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season” • Ephesians 6:19-20—pray for boldness to proclaim the mystery of the gospel The hope stored up in heaven propels us outward; the same “word of truth” that saved us is the word we now joyfully share. |
    |