“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature.” – Mark 16:15
Every believer is commissioned to bring people to Jesus. The Lord is not asking us to do something impossible or impractical. A faithful witness is one who is credible on a particular subject because of their experience, which shows in their convictions. A witness is also a spokesperson, someone who has something to say on the subject. The character of the Lord and the power of the Holy Spirit working through our lives will give evidence of our genuine Savior, Jesus.
John 3:1-8 tells of the new birth experience of Nicodemus. Anyone desiring to lead another person to Christ needs to be aware of verse 8: “The wind blows where it wills, and you hear the sound of it, and you don’t know where it comes from or where it’s going. So it is with everyone that is born of the Spirit.” No human being can make this happen. It has to do with the Spirit. In any situation, depend upon the Holy Spirit to present opportunities to minister the truth and life of Jesus. Then, let the Holy Spirit take it from there.
Don’t be disappointed if the person doesn’t show the response that you expected. Recognize that new birth is multi-processed. Our job is to lift Jesus up (John 12:32), and that takes place when we present the love and forgiving grace of God. The Holy Spirit will convict of sin (John 16:8, 9). If we try to impose guilt or coerce a conversion, most people will reject our message. When we invite others to come to the Person of Jesus, telling of His wondrous love and sharing what Jesus has done in our lives, the gentleness of Christ is seen in us, and others will be drawn to Him.
Here are four concepts to remember when leading a person to Christ:
Focus on Jesus as God’s Son and resurrected Savior. Invite the person to “receive” the gift of salvation. (John 3:16; Romans 10:9; Luke 10:20; Revelation 21:27)
Present the promises of acceptance, forgiveness, assurance, and eternal life. We are fully accepted and entirely forgiven. (John 1:12; 6:37, 40)
Invite the seeker to prayer as an action of faith to receive Jesus Christ. Help the person understand what it means to confess and acknowledge Jesus. (John 16:24; Matthew 10:32; Revelation 3:5)
Affirm their obedience to God, and pray a prayer of thanksgiving. Help the new believer get started in their walk with Jesus by providing them with resources and fellowship. (Philippians 1:6)
The Lord will make us effective in evangelism as we watch Him make the way, and then we gently step into the door He opens. There, His presence and power are available to touch the person’s heart and draw to them His love. He will save those we lead to Him.
