Romans 1:16 tells us, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.” This verse encourages us to be bold and unashamed in sharing our faith. The gospel is powerful and transformative, and it’s our job to share it with others.

Romans 10:13-17 outlines a logical progression for how people come to faith. It starts with calling on the name of the Lord to be saved. But how can people call on Him if they haven’t believed? And how can they believe if they haven’t heard? And how can they hear without someone telling them? And how can someone tell them unless they are sent? This passage highlights the importance of sharing the gospel.

The Greek word for saved is “sozo,” which means being rescued from danger, delivered from suffering, physically healed, and set free from sin. It’s not just about going to heaven when we die; it’s about experiencing God’s salvation in our lives right now. It’s a holistic salvation that affects our body, spirit, and life.

To be saved, people need to believe. But belief isn’t just a mental agreement; it’s about trusting Jesus and obeying Him. Even the demons believe in Jesus, but they don’t follow Him. True belief leads to action and obedience. Jesus proclaimed in Mark 1:15, “The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” Belief in Jesus requires us to follow Him and live out our faith.

For people to believe, they need to hear the gospel. God chose hearing as the method for revealing salvation. Think about when you first heard about Jesus. Chances are, someone told you about Him. Hearing the gospel is vital for coming to faith.

For people to hear, someone needs to share the gospel with them. This doesn’t mean you have to be a preacher behind a pulpit. It means proclaiming, announcing, and sharing your story with others. It’s about living out your faith and sharing it in everyday conversations. Francis of Assisi said, “It’s no use walking anywhere to preach unless our walking is our preaching.” Our lives should reflect the gospel we share.

For someone to share the gospel, they need to be sent. Jesus was sent by God to save the world, and now we are sent to share that message. We don’t need special qualifications or a Bible college degree. If you’re a follower of Jesus, you’re sent. Jesus commands us to go and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20).

How do we share our story? It’s about combining the gospel with our personal testimony. People can argue with abstract theology, but it’s hard to argue with your personal experience of how Jesus changed your life. Think about your story in three parts: before you met Jesus, how you met Him, and what your life is like now.

For example, before I met Jesus, I was proud and self-centred. When I encountered His love, it changed me. Now, I have a sense of purpose and live for His kingdom. What’s your story? Think of three words that describe your life before Jesus, your encounter with Him, and your life now.

We’re challenging everyone to share their story every day for a month. It’s not about converting people on the spot; it’s about planting seeds and trusting God to do the rest. It’s His job to save people, not ours. We just need to be faithful in sharing our story.

Remember, Jesus is the ultimate Good Samaritan. He didn’t pass by us in our brokenness. He came to heal, save, and restore us. And now, we’re called to do the same for others. Let’s be bold and intentional in loving our neighbours and sharing the good news of Jesus.

1. Reflect on Your Story: Think about your life before Jesus, your encounter with Him, and how He’s changed you. Write down three words that summarise each stage.
2. Share Your Story: Challenge yourself to share your story with someone every day for a month. It could be a neighbour, a colleague, or even a stranger.
3. Live Intentionally: Look for opportunities to serve and love your neighbours. Be intentional in your actions, just like Jesus was.
4. Pray for Boldness: Ask God to give you the courage to share your faith and the wisdom to know when and how to do it.
5. Trust God: Remember, it’s God’s job to save people. Your role is to be faithful in sharing your story and planting seeds.

By living out these principles, we can make a significant impact in our communities and bring the love of Jesus to those around us. Let’s be bold and intentional in our efforts to love our neighbours and share the gospel.