Article 1: Witnessing
Note: All biblical references are from a New International Version bible.
SPREADING THE WORD
What is witnessing anyway? Witnessing is simply spreading God's word to unbelievers. It can either be extremely hard or easy, but first you might be wondering why we should witness anyway?
There are many things the bible says about witnessing to emphasize its importance. How did you become a Christian? It wouldn't have happened if no one had told you about Jesus would it? Romans 10:14 explains it best, "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" You might think telling people what you believe is a waste of time, because they've heard it all before, but keep in mind that some have not heard and even if they have, knowing that you are a Christian might change their views. Witnessing is something God wants us to do. Jesus said in Mark 4:21-22, "Do you bring in a lamp to put it under a bowl or bed? Instead, don't you put it on its stand? For whatever is hidden is meant to be disclosed and whatever is concealed is meant to be brought out into the open". So tell others that you are a Christian and show it in how you act.
The most important question to ask is how do we witness? Paul gives us some advice in 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, "My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power, so that your faith might not rest on men's wisdom, but on God's power". Don't worry that you aren't a bible scholar, because God will help you. There are two types of witnessing; active and by example. Active witnessing is where you tell people face to face about Christ. By example witnessing is when you show that you are a Christian by how you act and live your life. Which you use really depends on your personality. If you're a good speaker then telling people openly about Jesus might be the way to go, but if you are too shy to do this sometimes just living your life as a Christian and showing your love for Jesus will work. I, personally am not much of a speaker and can't build up enough courage to say much, so I work on this website and try to 'lead by example'. My friends know I'm a Christian by the way I act and speak, but I've rarely had to explain that I am. However sometimes people bring up the topic and that's the perfect time to voice your opinions.
I hope this article will encourage you to witness using your own talents,
Your sister in Christ,
CJ