Effective Ways of Sharing the News of the Gospel
Many people are filled with fear because of the various things happening in societies around the world—afraid of being kidnapped, abused, or spiritually attacked, often because they do not know who might approach them. It is getting harder to share the news of the gospel; I experienced this firsthand when I tried doing street-to-street evangelism all alone. Therefore, I want to share some practical tips on how to be effective in sharing the news of the gospel.
1. Start Sharing with People Close to You
You already have a relationship with the people closest to you, so they will not feel threatened when you approach them, making it much easier to share the gospel. Jerusalem was the city where the disciples already had established close relationships, and that was where Jesus told them to start preaching:
“Ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)
2. Use Tracts
Using tracts is a great way to start sharing the gospel. Because you are essentially a stranger, people might walk right past you before you can introduce yourself. But when you hand them a tract first, their defenses relax. Moreover, if they do not have time to talk with you immediately, they can take the tract and read it at their convenience. For those who are not as confident in speaking, letting the tract do the talking is a wonderful alternative.
3. Go Out in Pairs
Whenever Jesus sent out His disciples to share the gospel, He sent them in pairs (Matthew 10). Even after His death and resurrection, Paul and Barnabas were sent out as a pair. I have noticed that people respond much better when approached by a pair rather than an individual. Also, two people can accomplish more work together than one person alone.
Furthermore, going in pairs is safer. There are places you might not want to enter alone, and some ministers have had bad experiences when witnessing to someone of the opposite sex in private, leading to attacks. We must be wise so that in our effort to do God's will, we do not fall into the traps of the devil and become bitter, even against God. Jesus told His disciples:
“Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)
4. Get Filled with the Holy Spirit
Without the help of the Holy Spirit, we can never be effective witnesses, because He not only protects us but also provides the wisdom of where and how to preach. The Scriptures tell us of instances when Paul and Barnabas wanted to go into a certain city, but the Holy Spirit forbade them (Acts 16:6–7). On the other hand, the Spirit told Philip, "Go near, and join thyself to this chariot" (Acts 8:29). This is why Jesus emphasized that the Apostles should not go anywhere without first being filled with the Holy Spirit (Luke 24:49, Acts 1:8). All you need to be filled with the Holy Spirit is to ask for Him in faith (Luke 11:13, Acts 19:1–6).
5. Seize Every Opportunity
In life, there are favourable moments when things can be done easily—what we call an open door. The writer of Ecclesiastes tells us there is a time and a season for everything (Ecclesiastes 3), and during those windows of opportunity, failure is minimal. When it comes to soul-winning, God creates opportunities for us to share with others; it is up to us to recognise and seize them. Therefore, to be effective, we must be vigilant.
While we can create opportunities ourselves, they are not always as smooth or assuring as the divine opportunities God creates for us, just as the Holy Spirit directed Philip to speak to the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:28–31).
People may not always want to stop and talk on the street, but certain circumstances make it hard to refuse—such as being stuck together in public transport, where you can talk to an individual or a group. My advice: when talking to an individual, start with friendly conversation to lower their guard and open the door for the gospel. Use tracts, but never overlook the divine appointments God brings your way!
6. Look Presentable
To the world, how you look influences how you are treated. To command attention and be taken seriously, your presentation and manner of dress matter. Dressing presentably helps open doors so you can easily share Christ.
7. Never Give Up
We must never give up on any soul. Many people might not give their lives to Christ instantly, but our consistency can be the icebreaker, because love is patient and never gives up (1 Corinthians 13:4, 7). Jesus never gave up on us. When the Pharisees brought a woman caught in adultery to be condemned, Jesus did not condemn her; instead, His love brought her salvation. Paul was once a terrorist to the Church, yet Jesus saved him.
Often, the greatest sinners become the most passionate lovers of Jesus once converted (such as Mary Magdalene and Paul). If someone does not convert immediately, get their contact information and stay in touch over time.
8. Pray for People’s Salvation
Sharing the gospel is spiritual warfare—a battle for souls—which is why Paul listed the gospel of peace as part of our spiritual armour (Ephesians 6:15). We must bathe our witness in prayer. Pray beforehand that God will open the spiritually blinded eyes of those you intend to reach so they can receive Christ (2 Corinthians 4:4).
Pray afterwards for those who get saved so they do not slip back into their old lives. Invite them to join a Bible-believing church so they can grow, and encourage them to read their Bibles and pray.
9. Be the News
One of the most powerful ways to share the gospel is to make your life an example of the message you preach. People watch your daily lifestyle from afar. If they see integrity and grace, they will naturally be drawn to ask about your faith. Sinners sought out Jesus because of His character; in the same way, people will be drawn to you when your life becomes your message.
Conclusion
I believe the passion to share the gospel is now kindled in your heart. Do not let it extinguish; fan the flame by starting to share the good news today! Please share this message with others so fellow believers can be ignited as well. This is a commandment given to all Christians that brings immense blessing to humanity, and the work will be finished much faster if we all get involved.
Have a blessed day! God bless you.
Today’s Reading:
Mark 16, Acts 1
Nevertheless, if you are not born again, you can accept Christ today by saying this simple prayer out loud in faith, believing that Jesus Christ died and rose again for your sins:
Prayer for Salvation
“Dear Lord, I believe Jesus died and rose again for me. Forgive me my sins and come into my life. I confess Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. Thank You, Father, for doing this for me. Reveal Yourself to me today. In Jesus' name, Amen.”
Congratulations! Your status has changed to that of a child of God if you said this prayer in faith.