Three Essential Steps for Evangelism

• Personal evangelism causes more shame in the hearts of believers than almost any other issue.
• We are often too casual about other people’s spirituality.
• The goal is to epitomize what Paul said when he claimed: “I am not ashamed of the gospel” (Rom. 1:16).  
• The goal of missional living is to be salt and light wherever you are (Matt. 5:13-16).  

‍Why Are We Hesitant to Share Our Faith?

• Ignorance
• Fear
• Persecution
• Confusion
• Credibility

‍Study: Colossians 4:3-6‍Pray

• First, Paul asked them to pray for him and his friends that God would open a door for God’s message to be delivered to those around them (Co. 4:3). 
• Paul was fearless in talking about Jesus by any means.  
• Paul was often beaten and threatened because he could not keep his mouth shut about Jesus (2 Cor. 11:23-28).  
• Casual Christianity doesn’t open its mouth, but intentional Christianity decides to ask for doors to be opened in order to speak when those opportunities present themselves.
• When was the last time you asked God to open a door for you to share what Christ has done in your life with someone?  
• Secondly, Paul asked them that they pray for his clarity as he shared.  
• The Apostle Paul, who refuted many brilliant people with the gospel’s truth, asked others to pray that he portray Christ clearly.  

Walk

• After Paul asked them to pray for him, he was also concerned with the walk part of the outreach.  
• He challenges these Colossian Christians to live lives conducted wisely, aware that “outsiders” are watching (Col. 4:5).  
• Paul understood that if we say something that contradicts our way of life, it sends a distorted, ambiguous message.  
• People you are attempting to convert are also in the process of converting you.
• Paul told us to always be wise about how we spend our time with those people (Col. 4:5).  

Talk

• Paul continues to say that one should be gracious in one’s speech and always be aware of exactly what to say to each specific person (Col. 4:6).  
• We evaluate their spiritual state based on their words, and we respond based on our experiences, knowledge, and relationship with the Lord.
• Evangelism consists of bragging lavishly on God.
• There is one thing that no one can ever argue with me about: Jesus changed my life.
• Someone can resort to arguments, but he or she can’t argue with results.
• Evangelism should not be prepackaged.  It’s never the same.  But it’s always Jesus.  
• In every conversation, try to find a way to get to Christ.

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