Witnessing

[Dullhook]

I've alway's felt that witnessing, or testifying to our belief in God, was an important part of being a Christian.

I've never been very good at it though. I've made friends with people and got into discussions with them, but with some, as soon as I bring up God, or Jesus, either clam up or give me one of those "I really don't want to hear it", looks.

So I drop it and we continue to be friends, I try to show my faith to them by example, hoping that they will ask me about it on their own accord some day.

These are the people that I'd really like to share the message with, but rather than jeopardize a potential good friendship, I've taken the low key approach, in hopes that in time their curiosity will overcome them.

I try to sneak a reference to the Bible or church in on occasions, just to substantiate my faith, and these are usually greeted with a friendly smile, but I don't push it too far.

Most Christians have friends or co-workers that are either non-believers or unattached, that they would like to reach.

How do some of you deal with this? Am I copping out with this low-key approach, or is witnessing not a top priority?
Is showing my faith in the Lord by example and actions good enough? :shrug:

Any thoughts would be appreciated!

Thank's.............Dennis :flowered:

[AnglersRental]

I can tell you this, I was similar to some of those friends you want to reach not so long ago. I would listen to my friends and go to church on occasion, but I didnt see the relevence in my life. I wasnt ready, humble enough, to need God. It all seemed "good" but not very "real". But I listened and seeds were planted. When crisis happened in my life, those friends of faith were there for me... much more than the agnostic friends were. And the seeds had been planted, I knew how they had said God had helped them in good times and bad. Because of that I was willing to turn to God when the time was right. At first it was more "911 God" but over time it has become more of a "411 God" relationship. And those friends of faith are still there giving guidence and support. I only hope that in the future I can use my expierence, my testimony, to plant some seeds... and be part of His greater plan in the future.

Continue to plant some seeds, and when the time is right you may get to watch them grow. :flowered:

Brad

[sharkcatcher2]

Witnessing can be a sensitive area to be sure. Above all else seek to be lead of the Holy Spirit, which to be sure is easier said than done. Always let love be the leading factor in all you do for Jesus. His love, by example, word and deed. Continue to be faithful in prayer, seek to share the Word when you can and the Lord will use you in ways you cannot imagine. Press on!

[fishnwHim]

Above all else seek to be lead of the Holy Spirit


If you are being led by the spirit to share your faith by means other than example, then you should do it. I think God has us do things so we can grow through being obedient. I believe that God doesn't need us to do His work. If we do things because we think we are supposed to or that we have to help Him get His work done, we decieve ourselves. I believe the best way we can witness is to walk in the spirit and do our best ot be obedient to His calling, not our own ambitions. I guess the point I am trying to make is, Did Jesus tell us to witness to Tom , or did Fred tell us we should witness to Tom , and now we feel like a bad Christian because we didn't. I believe we need to simply keep our eyes on Jesus, listen to His Holy Spirit and follow His leading , not mans :wave: :wave:

[in 'em]

I have struggled with similar feelings. Our purpose, as Christians, is to fulfill the Great Commission right? To lead others to Christ! Why do I not do this?!?!

Several thoughts have comforted me with this topic...

1. Witnessing is not only those moments when you are speaking, but every moment you're alive! Jesus lead through his speech and teachings, but just as powerful was the way he lead by example. Witnessing is not only leading a person to "pray the prayer", but planting seeds as well, just as you mentioned. Whether it be through words or example, "praying the prayer" or planting a single seed...we are witnessing.

2. Perhaps the most comforting thought is this... We, as Christians, often underestimate the exponential value of being a witness to our wife and children (other family, girlfriend, whoever). Fulfilling the Great Commission is more than leading the lost to Christ or witnessing to "outsiders", but partnering with your wife in a relationship with Christ and leading your Children to the Lord as well. Your wife and kids, along with you, will then have what it takes to teach others as well as being a great example to all who see your family's example. There is ALWAYS someone watching!

Seek Christ, His words and timing and great things will come!

[FastActionRodTip]

Dullhook, your post sounded like it was describing my situation exactly. I have lunch everyday with coworkers who range from aethists to unsure to don't like talking about it. We have fun together and enjoy each others company. I felt one day I would breech the subject and got mixed reactions. I'm getting better each day at caring less and less of what people think about me. I don't push it too hard, but I don't hesitate to bring it up either. I would love for these people who God loves to open up to it a little. It just takes patience and persistence, God won't leave us on an island if we're doing His will. Keep at it!

[rimrock]

I liked it in’em.

The “prayer” after all is very American; it’s not really essential biblically per se. Not that it’s wrong but any “formula” is missing the mark as well.

Super point on witnessing to family, it’s the most critical mission field God has before us. When I got to meet DAB and his family I sure respected his service to his family which was apparent they are all fine Christian people – I’m sure dad’s not perfect no dad is, but it’s a great testament to God in his life.

[FastActionRodTip]

I'm making small strides and baby steps in my conversion. I find myself making consious decisions based on what i've read in the Bible, things I didn't realize was wrong before. Such as charity. I used to be prideful and like talking about what I did for others, but now know we need to keep these things secret between ourselves and God so as to not receive our recognition and reward on earth. However, I am far from totally surrendering my will to Him. I still backslide too easy and too often on things I know are against His will. Unfortunately I can't say with any conviction that if I died today I would make it to Heaven. I hope he has more paitence with me and keeps me around long enough to reveal His purpose for me. I don't believe he will wait on us forever though. He will give us enough rope to hang ourselves. Sorry about rambling on. I can't speak like this to too many people close to me, they think I'm nuts. Sometimes it's easier with strangers.

[rimrock]

You know the old saying, “The only Jesus some people will ever see is the Jesus they see in us.”

Well, it’s terribly wrong. :jester: What do people see when they see me? An imperfect man broken by this sinful nature. In other words they see the same thing in themselves, which is good it keeps Christians authentic.

So what’s Scripture tell us about sharing the Gospel to be the perfect example of Jesus in the world or to “always be prepared to give an answer for the hope you have but do this with gentleness and respect…” So can you give the answer? What’s the hope?

Witnessing always starts with God – dedication to daily prayer and growing in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ. One must know the faith before they can share it, what I’m saying is, are you equipped? Many churches are limited in their means for equipping. A good source to supplement not replace any church would be a program like Bible Study Fellowship. If anyone is interested let me know, I’ve been involved for years it’s been instrumental.

Do I need to be lead by the Spirit? Well, sure but…do I need to be lead or ask God about loving my wife today? Hasn’t He already lead me to His will on the matter. Doesn’t God “desire for all to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.” Do I ask God if it’s a good idea to befriend my neighbors, should I wait to be lead by His Spirit, or do I just befriend them?

Witnessing is an element of the growing Christian. Now we don’t run down the street grabbing everyone yelling, “DO YOU KNOW JESUS!!!” :smash: :smash: But there hasn’t been a week that’s gone by either where I haven’t had the opportunity to share the love of Christ in many various ways.

It starts with God, are you “prepared to give an answer for the hope you have…with gentleness and respect”

[Dullhook]

Thank's for the input everyone! All of you have made some valid points! :applause:

I've had some rather serious health problems for some time, but my gracious Lord has extended my stay on this earth.

I'll never be a pastor, or great communicator. Nothing more than a sinner trying to improve, and return some of the love my Savior Jesus Christ has given me.

In my heart I feel as though to testify, even in my feeble way, can help someone look towards Him, it's the right thing to do.

II Corinthians 4:1

"It is God Himself, in His mercy, who has given us this wonderful work (of telling His good news to others), and so we never give up."