Starting a conversation about God can feel like stepping into an icy cold pool. Backing out sounds like a much better idea than diving in. Only when we realize the consequence of giving up, as well as the joy to be missed, we discover increasing power with each step.
So what does it look like, really? How do we begin to talk to friends about God? Ironically, it begins with talking to God about our friends.
Pray
Starting a conversation about God may be simple in itself, but it’s incredibly intimidating. It’s especially scary when talking to someone we know, or a friend who might reject us.
Pray to God for the opportunity, for courage, and for this person’s heart to be soft to the Gospel. Then, when God responds with timing and creativity, it’s up to you to say Yes
FOUR WAYS TO START CONVERSATIONS ABOUT JESUS
2 Timothy 1:17: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”
1. ASK QUESTIONS
What 3 words best describe you?
On a scale of 1-10, how happy are you?
What drives you to get up each morning?
What do you believe happens after we die?
What’s your spiritual background?
What do you think of when you hear the word Christian?
On a scale of 1-10, how sure are you that you’re going to Heaven?
How does God determine who gets into Heaven?
2. LEARN YOUR FRIEND
What is a major interest, hobby, or person your friend adores? Think of how you can creatively share the Gospel using this interest. Ask family or Christian friends how they might relate it?
For example: How is the Body of Christ like a basketball team? How is God this world’s artist and Jesus His paintbrush? How might trusting God be like music? How are Christians His instruments?
3. 1-2-3-4 TRUTHS
The are four Truths which make up the Gospel of Christ
- God loves us and has a wonderful plan for our lives
- Man is sinful, so we are separated from God
- God sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to die for us and pay the penalty for our sins
- If we receive Jesus Christ as our Savior and Lord, and surrender our hearts to Him, we have eternal life. We can be 100% sure we are going to Heaven.
Before your first conversations, choose four meals, bus rides, phone calls, or drives home from practice, when you will share one Truth each time. Ask God to help you keep your commitment – no matter what. Allow the conversation to flow after even step one. But if it doesn’t, you’ve taken the faith step. Keep going onto the next one! Keep trusting God!
4. INVITE INVITE INVITE
Maybe your friend isn’t too keen on attending church or youth group, but what about a concert or out for ice cream? Why not gather some Christian friends to watch a sports game with you both?
Once your friend discovers Christians don’t just hold hands, sway, and sing hymns…. well, then you will no longer battle the greatest misconception… It’s uncool. Neither will you fear being alone in the discussion because you’ve now some other Christians to refer too.
Oh! And don’t forget to invite your Christian friends, and family, to pray for your friend, as well.