LEARN TO TALK ABOUT JESUS

Regardless of our individual styles, we've all got to be alert, looking for opportunities to talk to people about Christ. Sometimes that will require taking risks, along with the willingness to be creative in how we raise such critically important topics of conversation.

There are times when we speak of Christ by our actions, but there are also times when clear communication is called for, when we've got to talk about our faith by putting spiritual concepts into plain, everyday words.

How to talk about Jesus:

• Before you'll be able to initiate any discussion, start with the heart-felt assurance that not only is your life better than it was before you knew God, but the lives of others will be better, too, even through the tough times. Without this assurance, it's almost impossible to motivate yourself to take meaningful action.

• List some of the benefits of knowing Christ, then review the promises God makes to us in the Bible for this life and the next.

• Pray regularly for opportunities to speak of Jesus, then watch for them throughout each day.

• Pique curiosity. Drop hints and create curiosity the way Jesus did when He mentioned living water to the woman at the well (read John 4). Let them further the discussion by asking you what you're referring to.

• Don't underestimate their degree of interest. We make the mistake of assuming people ask, "What's the point of living?" Here, we hold the keys to meaning in this life and the next.

• The Direct Method doesn't wait for opportunities to avail themselves; it creates them. "If you'd like to know the difference between religion and Christianity, let me know. I'd be happy to talk to you about it," is an opener that makes people curious. The hearer may ignore it, bring it up later, or ask for an explanation right away. You are not pressuring him/her or forcing it upon him/her, only presenting an offer for discussion.

• The Indirect Method takes some element of the present discussion and utilizes it to turn the conversation toward matters of God, the church, or faith. With a little planning and practice, almost anyone can master this approach. The goal is to raise the topic, not to evoke an affirming response. If the conversation turns to sports, you might mention sports heroes who are Christians. Or when a friend talks about a problem, you might share how you solved it based on God's wisdom or direction.

• The Invitational Method invites friends to events at your church, and to specific conversations about spiritual topics. Be careful to select events that you're confident will be done with excellence and with sensitivity toward outsiders. Put something in their hands that will give details about the event - a printed brochure, or handwritten memo. Offer them a ride and suggest having a meal or coffee together after the event. These extra touches will show friendship and provide a context for talking about what you've seen and heard.

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