How to Talk About Jesus to Someone Who Doesn't Yet Believe
February 29, 2024
Picture this: You're sitting across from a friend, coffee in hand, the aroma of freshly ground beans wafting through the air. Your heart races, not from the caffeine, but from the conversation that's about to unfold. You're about to dive into one of your life's most exhilarating, nerve-wracking conversations - sharing your faith in Jesus with someone who doesn't see things the way you do.
Sounds daunting? I get it. I've been there too. But here's the thing - it doesn't have to be a heart-pounding saga of epic proportions. Let me walk you through it, step by step, in a practical but also genuine, heartfelt, and enjoyable way.
The Coffee Shop Chronicles: Your Guide to Sharing Jesus
The Prequel: Setting the Scene
You've got your setting - a cozy corner in your favorite café - and it's time to lay the groundwork. Instead of launching straight into a heavy-duty sermon, how about starting with a simple, "Hey, can I share something that's really important to me? Boom. You've just set a relaxed tone and are ready to ease into the conversation like you're sharing your favorite movie plot, not entering a battlefield.
Act 1: Listen Like It’s Your New Favorite Song
Listening. Yep, it sounds like the most basic skill, right? But we're not talking about nodding while mentally rehearsing your following monologue. This is about tuning in to their beliefs, fears, dreams, the whole shebang, as if you're listening to the most fascinating podcast ever. This isn't just polite; it's your secret weapon. By truly listening, you're showing respect and creating a safe space for an honest exchange of ideas.
Act 2: The Heart of Your Story
Imagine you're the main character in a story that could make Steven Spielberg cry. This is where you share that turning point in your life when you knew Jesus was more than just a historical figure. It's your story, raw and unfiltered; no special effects are needed. Personal stories break down walls and build bridges in ways that arguments or debates just can't.
Act 3: Simplicity for the Win
Remember, we're not trying to impress a panel of theologians here. Think of explaining your faith, like describing the plot of "The Lion King" to a 5-year-old. Keep it simple, and watch their eyes light up with understanding, not glaze over in confusion.
Act 4: Analogies, Your New Best Friends
Analogies are like your trusty sidekick in this adventure. They make complex ideas relatable, and let's be honest, they're fun. Jesus loved using parables (fancy words for stories) to explain his points; if it's good enough for him, it's good enough for us. Find relatable, everyday stories to illustrate your points; you'll have them leaning in, eager for more.
Act 5: Embrace the Questions
Questions are not the enemy. They're signs of an engaged, curious mind. So when they start firing off, don't panic. Embrace them. And if you don't know the answer? That's okay. Admitting you're not Google incarnate shows humility and authenticity. Remember, this isn't about winning; it's about sharing.
The Feature Presentation: What to Share About Jesus
Okay, you've got the steps down, but what about the content? Here are the top five hits, the crème de la crème of what to share about Jesus.
The Chart-Topper: Unconditional Love
Jesus is like that one friend who loves you no matter how many times you forget their birthday. His message of unconditional love and acceptance, regardless of our past, is a game-changer. This is the warm hug everyone needs in a world that often feels cold and judgmental.
The B-Side Hit: Transformation
Jesus isn't about leaving you where you are; he's about taking you on an epic transformation journey. This isn't self-help; it's divine intervention. Sharing how your life has changed can spark hope for someone craving a fresh start.
The Remix: Forgiveness
Here's the deal with forgiveness - it's radical. Jesus offered it freely, even when it seemed undeserved. Sharing stories of forgiveness, especially self-forgiveness, can break chains for people carrying burdens they thought were too heavy to let go.
The Collaboration: Community
We're wired for connection, and Jesus was all about building community. Talk about how being part of a faith community has supported you, made you laugh, and given you a family. It's about showing that faith isn't a solo journey; it's a party, and everyone's invited.
The Sleeper Hit: Hope
In a world that can often seem dark and hopeless, Jesus is the bright light at the end of the tunnel. Sharing the hope you've found in your faith can be a lifeline to someone struggling to see the light.
The Encore: Wrapping It Up With a Bow
There you have it, a step-by-step guide to sharing your faith in Jesus with a non-believer, wrapped up and tied with a bow. Remember, this isn't about converting someone on the spot. It's about opening a door, starting a conversation, and sharing the most important story of your life.
So the next time you find yourself across from a friend, with the aroma of coffee in the air, take a deep breath. You've got this. Sharing your faith isn't a high-wire act; it's an invitation to a journey, an offer to join you in the most incredible story ever told.
And who knows? Maybe your words will be the nudge someone needs to embark on their adventure of discovery, faith, and transformation.
You May Also Like These…
