Make a Difference

“He found first his own brother Simon, ... He brought him to Jesus.” John 1:41-42

Statistics show that eighty-five percent of Christians came to know Christ through a friend or family member. In other words, most believers did not have a sudden, one-time encounter with a total stranger that lead them to commit their lives to Jesus. Instead, they were ministered to by someone close, somebody whom they already knew.

What do these facts mean for evangelism, sharing the good news of Jesus with others? It means establishing fellowship to form a basis for communication.

Yes, many times God does use meetings with strangers to reach people. Several excellent evangelistic programs approach witnessing in a “door-to-door” style involving brief contacts. But for your everyday life, the consistently best way to reach those around you is by cultivating real and growing relationships.

When someone has the chance to see you and talk to you on a regular basis, you build a platform of trust and credibility. Then, as he begins to ask questions and approach spiritual subjects, you have a personal basis for discussion. I Peter 3:15

Are your eyes open for such relationship opportunities? You could be the one to make the difference. Today, ask God for an opportunity to talk to someone about Christ.