Share Jesus; Don't Sell Him
By John Buchholz
How can I share Jesus with my unbelieving friend without hurting the friendship? I've tried to witness to her, but my friend only gets annoyed.
So, you want to close the deal. You want to make the sale. Get your friend to sign on the dotted line. Get her to believe in Jesus.
Your friend is very special to you. You care deeply about where she's going to spend eternity. You know that without Jesus, she's lost. You see the need.
You know you're a player in this game. When Jesus said, "Go and make disciples," he was talking to you. You know it's your privilege to talk about Jesus. If you don't do it, who will? You might be the only person who ever talks about spiritual things with this person. Hey, no pressure!
Arguing doesn't work
I used to think that I could persuade people into the kingdom of God. I really did. I figured that if I just laid it out nice and simple, they'd see how obvious it is that they need Jesus. If I could just argue religion better than they could, I'd win one for Christ.
Truth is, it just doesn't work that way.
Jesus never said, "You will be my lawyers." We can't argue anyone into God's grace. He said, "You will be my witnesses." What we get to do is tell what we've seen.
Share what you know
And you've seen a lot, haven't you? You've seen what Jesus has done for you. You've seen him tortured and killed-to give you life. You've seen him abandoned by God-to bring you close to God.
Just share what you've seen!
You know his love. He scoops you up in his arms. He picks you up when you're bummed. He tells you you're forgiven when you feel guilty. He tells you he's crazy about you, even when you feel worthless. He's never let you down. Never.
Just share what you've experienced!
How about introducing Jesus as a friend? "Let me tell you why I love Jesus so much. It's because he loves me so much. And he loves you. He died on the cross to pay for your sins, too. And he wants to give you everything he's given me. All Jesus wants to do is love you."
Relax
Take it easy here. Relax. You don't have to say everything in one breath. Let God give you the right words to say. Be bold to trust him.
And then wait. No arm-twisting required. You've planted the seed. It's the Spirit who does the work. Put it in God's hands.
Of course, while you're waiting, you can keep praying. Ask the Holy Spirit to use his word to change your friend's heart. Ask the Spirit to break down all the pride that keeps Jesus locked out. Be bold! Pray boldly!
You might also connect your friend with other people who are Christians. Invite her to a youth activity at your church. Show her that Christians are basic, down-to-earth people who like to have a good time. Show her how much fun you have following Jesus.
There's no way you can "sell" Jesus - and you don't want to. C'mon, he's not a used car or an old stereo!
But we sure do count ourselves privileged to share Jesus.