JANUARY 3RD
Acts 26:24-29
“And as [Paul] was saying these things in his defense, Festus said with a loud voice, “Paul, you are out of your mind; your great learning is driving you out of your mind.” But Paul said, “I am not out of my mind, most excellent Festus, but I am speaking true and rational words. For the king knows about these things, and to him I speak boldly. For I am persuaded that none of these things has escaped his notice, for this has not been done in a corner. King Agrippa, do you believe the prophets? I know that you believe.” And Agrippa said to Paul, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” And Paul said, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains.”
Resolution #3: Help people take the next step on their journey towards Christ!
When Paul the prisoner was brought before King Agrippa, he knew some things about Agrippa and what he believed. So Paul started from there and worked to help Agrippa take the next step towards faith in Christ. Paul’s approach of helping people take the next step towards Jesus needs to become our way of interacting with people too.
How will you know where a person is in their journey towards Christ? By asking them meaningful questions. That seems a little bit backwards for someone wanting to lead people to Christ. Isn’t sharing Christ with people all about telling them our message of the gospel?
It has to include sharing the gospel, yes. But what will truly make your witness for Jesus effective is learning to ask questions and listen. Once you know what a person’s next step towards Jesus would be, then you can help them take it!
MAKE IT PERSONAL
What do you communicate to someone when you ask him or her a question and then listen to the answer with focus and interest? Think about 3 questions you can ask someone to help them in their journey towards Christ. If you need to, write them down so you don’t forget!