Our Discipleship Journey: Part 1Sample

Person of Peace Strategy

Luke 10 gives us Jesus’ discipleship masterclass. He trains 72 of His followers to go out and invite others to follow Him, too, using a simple, brilliant strategy for discovering where God is already at work in people’s lives. Jesus assures His disciples (and us!) that the harvest is plentiful. That means we shouldn’t prejudge people as closed to the gospel. We don’t know where people are really at in their faith journeys if we don’t bother to find out. People are often more unclear than resistant. They may not be able to articulate what it is they really put their faith in; they may not have the language for their values, spirituality, or sense of purpose. Stay kind. Show an interest in the life of an unbelieving friend. Ask questions and try to figure out their worldview.

‘The harvest is plentiful’ doesn’t mean everybody will throw themselves down and say, ‘What must I do to be saved?’ Not everyone, but not no one. God is inviting you to join Him in what He’s already doing in your world. Imagine what might change in your community over the next month if you prayed daily and fervently for God to send out more workers, including you, into the ‘harvest field’.

Luke 10:5-7 encapsulates the person of peace strategy: when we find people who welcome us and promote peace, we should lean in and stick around. We are to love and serve everybody but in doing so, pay attention to where God has begun to soften hearts and open eyes. Look for people who (1) like you, (2) listen to you, and (3) want to serve you. As Christians, we’re so conditioned to serve others, but Jesus says there will be people who want to serve you. It’s a sign that the Holy Spirit is at work in someone’s life, even if they don’t know it. Don’t let people’s hospitality or generosity with time or other resources make you feel awkward. Graciously accept and reciprocate as God strengthens your connection.

You may not be a stand-on-the-street-corner kind of evangelist, but you are part of a vibrant community of people. So, live with your radar up! Pray that God will lead you to people of peace. Don’t force faith down people’s throats, but be open about being a follower of Jesus, and particularly when you meet a new person, be curious: Could this be a person of peace? Then pray for ways to move the conversations from casual to meaningful to spiritual.

Take a moment to celebrate: the pressure is off. You don’t have to manufacture gospel opportunities. You’re simply called to pray for the people who fill your days. You’re called to be conspicuously spiritual (note: not weirdly spiritual; just authentic, enthusiastic, and helpful). And you’re called to be curious about people’s stories. May God help you to recognise people of peace who, like you, listen to you, and are keen to serve you. May you take every opportunity to partner with Him as He begins to transform the lives of these people by His grace.