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One Simple Way to Talk With a Neighbor About Christ
Whether sitting on the floor with little ones, walking the neighborhood side by side, or eating a bite of lunch together around my kitchen table, my intention is to listen to the Spirit’s prompting to share Jesus with those women who begin attending our Neighborhood Bible Study.
I love praying for, reaching out, and getting to know each woman God draws to come. I do this by personally inviting her to my home for a cup of coffee or a simple lunch. I express my heart to get to know her and her story.
While together we casually chat back and forth sharing general “get-to know-you” information -- for example, where she grew up and went to school, her hobbies, her husband and children, etc. -- I don’t like her to feel interviewed, so I also share brief comments about myself and my family to create a natural atmosphere of friendship.
Because my intention is to find out where she is spiritually, I generally say, “It is so interesting for me to hear the individual spiritual journeys of the women attending our study. I would love to hear yours.” I have not had one person ever turn me down. My prayer is that as she talks about her spiritual background, God will open an avenue for me to clarify the Gospel with her if she has not trusted Christ as her Savior and Lord.
As she unfolds her story I usually ask clarifying questions such as, “What did that experience mean to you? What caused you to turn toward God or move away from Him? If you could know God personally, would you be interested? On a scale of 1-10, how sure are you that if you died tonight you would spend eternity with God?” Please know, the Holy Spirit will prompt you with questions and comments that will help you discover where individuals are spiritually.
If she has expressed a desire to know God personally, I ask if I can take a few minutes to share God’s heart for her from the Bible. I read through the Knowing God Personally booklet in print or from the God Tools App. For me this tool is short, simple, keep
s the conversation focused on Scripture, and helps the individual make sure she is a Christian or guides her to make a decision for Christ (either with me or on her own).
I can’t think of anything more gratifying than reaching the people in the mission field of my neighborhood right outmy front door.
Suggested Action Points
- Read Missy's story of meeting Jesus during our time together
- Learn tips on sharing your faith with Knowing God Personally.
- Pray and ask the Lord to give you a heart to share Christ with a neighbor.
Do you have questions you like to ask when getting to know someone on a deeper level? Would you share them with us
