Fearlessly Making Disciples Sample

Overcoming Obstacles

Jon and Josiah were on a mission trip in a foreign country, sitting across from the country’s wildlife commissioner. He had heard of Jesus but didn’t know much about him.

“He was a good man, right? A prophet?”

“He was much more,” said Jon. “He was God’s Son who came to save us from God’s wrath.”

The man’s eyes widened. “Tell me more. I know nothing of this wrath.”

Jon clammed up with angst, unprepared for how little the commissioner knew. Josiah prayed silently, knowing his friend was unsure how to respond. Both guys had assumed everyone knew why Christ died.

With the Lord’s help, Jon and Josiah led the man to Christ. They learned when meeting someone unfamiliar with the gospel, they could have a part in confidently moving them past two obstacles: unawareness and disbelief.

Whether you explain the gospel message or teach a new believer, helping launch and equip others on their spiritual journey sometimes comes with obstacles. Let’s look at two mindsets that might be slight roadblocks when initially sharing the good news:

Unawareness

This is someone unfamiliar with Jesus or His message, or they think they understand it better than they do.

It’s common to freeze up here--not knowing where to start. But this is where we explain why all humanity desperately needs a Savior and how Jesus met that need on the cross.

Disbelief

Sometimes, when someone hears about Jesus, they react with skepticism. Explaining things requires patience, diligence, and prayer. It may take months or years for them to accept the truth.

As the Spirit continues to woo them, we can demonstrate love by answering their questions the best we can. Don’t overlook the importance of sharing your own story about how Jesus captured your heart.

Leave the Results to God

Silently praying is a great way to overcome feelings of helplessness. The basic gospel is simple and easy to understand. Complicating it with unrelated doctrine only distracts from the message of salvation. All you need to communicate is your Bible and these four simple truths:

1. God loves you and wants you to know Him personally.
2. Humanity is sinful and separated from God.
3. Jesus made a way to bridge the gap to enjoy a relationship with God.
4. Each person must believe/accept Jesus as the only way to God.

Remember, it’s not up to you. Share your faith with the Holy Spirit’s courage and leave the results to God.

For Reflection: Why is it helpful to know where someone is spiritually? Do you know someone who might be struggling with unawareness or disbelief? Pray for them and look for ways to have spiritual conversations.