How can we actively share the hope found in Jesus' name today? Setting our eyes on the verse “ ‘In His name the nations will put their hope.’ ” (Matthew 12:21) Jesus applies Isaiah’s prophecy to Himself, announcing that every people group can find certain, living hope in Him alone. That promise frames the way we share Him today. Seeing the hope Jesus offers • Hope that is personal—rooted in a Person, not an idea (John 14:6). • Hope that rescues—salvation “in no one else” (Acts 4:12). • Hope that endures—“an anchor for the soul, firm and secure” (Hebrews 6:19). Practical ways to share this hope • Speak His name naturally – Work His goodness into everyday conversation: “Jesus has been faithful to me in…” – Keep it relational, not religious jargon. • Tell your story – Briefly describe life before Christ, how you met Him, and the change since (Mark 5:19). – People argue with theories, not with transformed lives. • Open the Scriptures – Offer to read a Gospel together; let them meet Christ firsthand (Romans 10:17). – Highlight promises: John 3:16; Romans 5:8; Revelation 21:4. • Practice visible compassion – Serve needs practically—meals, rides, listening ears. – Good works “adorn the gospel” and open ears (Titus 2:10). • Pray in Jesus’ name while present – Simple, sincere prayers show confidence in a living Savior. – God often uses answered prayer as a witness (John 14:13). • Leverage community – Invite others into your small group, family dinner, or church gathering (Acts 2:46-47). – Loving fellowship displays the reality of Christ’s body (John 13:35). • Engage the nations next door – Reach international students, co-workers, and neighbors; Matthew 12:21 envisions them all. – Offer language help, cultural friendship, and the gospel hand-in-hand. Cultivating hearts that overflow hope • Abide daily in Scripture and prayer (Psalm 1:2-3). • Confess sin quickly; a clear conscience breeds boldness (Proverbs 28:1). • Stay filled with the Spirit, the source of joy and courage (Ephesians 5:18). • Gather with believers who spur you on (Hebrews 10:24-25). Encouraging words from the rest of Scripture • “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you.” (1 Peter 3:15) • “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you believe, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” (Romans 15:13) • “We are therefore ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us.” (2 Corinthians 5:20) • “In His name the nations will put their hope.” (Matthew 12:21) Let His certain promise fuel fearless, graceful witness until every nation has heard. |
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