What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Question 1
Are you an extrovert or an introvert? Does this extend to your ability to share the Gospel?
Question 2
Read Matthew 28:16-20. What did the disciples do first? What were the responses to seeing Jesus again, face to face? How would either group react to His statement in verse 18 or His assignment to them in verses 19-20? If you accept verse 18 as true, what are you to do with the rest of this passage?
Question 4
Give them the Gospel. Read the rest of Matthew 28:19-20 and Acts 8:30-31, 35. Once you go, what are you to do? How did Phillip find an opening and an opportunity? These passages are clear about verbalizing your faith. Can you think of an opening question? What are your fears about speaking out to others about Jesus? How does verse 20 help your fears?
Question 5
Give lots of grace. Read Acts 8:36-39. Have you taken the first step of obedience, like the Ethiopian? Have you only shared Jesus with people like yourself (your kids, your family, or friends)? Is it easier or harder to share with close friends or family? Do you have some inhibitions about sharing with people in a different economic, cultural, or racial people group? How can “giving grace” help you expand both your comfort zone and the Kingdom of God?
Action Step
This week, we are asking all believers to commit to these steps:
1. Like the Ethiopian, have you ever followed through with baptism? Have you encouraged other believers to take that step or celebrated with them?
2. Pray for an opportunity to share the Good News of Jesus. Pray for the open door, as Paul did in Colossians 4:3-4. Ask God also for eyes to see the opportunities right before you and how and when to step into the conversation
3. This week when you serve at Cove Gives Back (sign up here), be open to someone who may be wondering why you are serving. That would be a great introduction into how Jesus has changed your life and asked you to serve.
4. Tell your Life Group leader if you are interested in evangelism training. We plan to offer that this fall to individuals and Life Groups. (But do not wait until then to share!)