“This fact, that every Christian has a gift and therefore a responsibility,
and that no Christian is passed by and left without an endowment, is fundamental to the New Testament doctrine of the church. It should also transform the
life of Christians and churches. Many church leaders complain that the congregation lacks gifted lay leadership, and this is the standard excuse for attempting
little. But Scripture addresses each local church with the same word
which Paul used to the Corinthians: ‘You are the body of Christ.’ Thus, Scripture and assumptions in the church are often at variance with each other; appearances indicating that the congregation is destitute of gifts, while Scripture says,
‘It is not so! You are the body of Christ.’ If we take God at His word, then we are committed to believe that He has endowed, or at least is willing to endow, each
local church with all the gifts it needs for life, health, growth, and ministry.”—
John Stott ( SDA Personal Ministries Handbook)
Jesus used five steps in witnessing
- He mingled with people as one who desired their good.
- He showed sympathy.
- He ministered to their needs.
- He won their confidence.
- He bade people “follow me.”
Examples of Personal Evangelism Principles
Jesus and the Samaritan Woman
✍Contact others socially. ✍Establish common ground. ✍Arouse interest. ✍Get the ball rolling.
✍Don’t go too far. ✍Don’t condemn.
✍Stay with the main issue. ✍Confront the person directly
If The Opportunity to Share Your Faith Arises
✍Begin by speaking about world conditions. ✍Some of those interested may require further visitation
Friendship Evangelism - Page 9