Page 112 - First Steps 2023

Session 7:
Sharing the Story

The discipler begins this session.

For many Jesus-followers, the word “evangelism” is
terrifying. They picture preaching on street corners or
passing out tracts to anyone willing to take one.

Jesus may call you to do that someday, but it’s far likelier he’ll do
this: Ask you to follow him and then share your story about how your life
has changed because of him.
There’s power in personal story. There’s authenticity that’s almost
magnetic. In a world where transformation feels all but impossible, shar-
ing your story of soul-deep change is compelling.
Especially to your family and friends, who’ve seen things change in
you.
But you’ll also need to share why you’re living as you’re living: Be-
cause of the power of Jesus.
It’s not that you’re by nature a wonderful neighbor or caring friend.

It’s that you heard the gospel and embraced Jesus…and you’re willing to
share both.
You and your discipler will talk today about sharing the story of fol-
lowing Jesus, but not in a scary way. You’ll discover how important it is to
share your faith—it’s essential for a disciple to do so—and how to do it in a
natural, powerful way.

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of
God that brings salvation to everyone who believes; first to the Jew,

then to the Gentile. For in the gospel the righteousness of God is
revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is
written: ‘The righteous will live by faith’” (Romans 1:16-17).

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