Welcome to our new series "Gospeler" where we explore what it means to be someone who shares the gospel (which means good news) to others. This can sometimes feel like a daunting task. However, as we delve into this topic, remember that our strength and courage come from God. Let's embark on this journey together, learning how to become gospelers who share the love of Jesus with the world.
The Great Commission
In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives us the Great Commission: "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Reflect on the people who have been part of your gospel genealogy. These are the individuals who shared the love of Jesus with you and helped you grow in your faith. Just as they played a role in your spiritual journey, you are called to be part of someone else's gospel genealogy.
A disciple is someone who learns from a teacher and then passes on that knowledge. Jesus' disciples were expected to carry on His teachings, and this call has echoed through generations. Our task is to continue this legacy by sharing the gospel and making disciples.
Why is Sharing the Gospel Intimidating?
Many Christians, even seasoned ones, find the idea of sharing their faith intimidating. The fear of rejection, the feeling of inadequacy, and the concern of not being knowledgeable enough can all contribute to these fears. However, it's essential to remember that our role is not to save people but to plant the seeds of the gospel.
Dependence on God and the Power of the Gospel
In 1 Corinthians 3:6-9, Paul explains that he planted the seed of God’s Word, Apollos watered it, but God made it grow. A seed is hardwired for the harvest. In the same way, the gospel is hardwired for salvation. Our role is to share the good news and encourage others in their faith, but it is God who brings spiritual growth. Just as we depend on God for the sun to rise and our hearts to beat, we must rely on Him when sharing the gospel. This dependence on God should bring us joy and peace, knowing that we are not alone in this mission.
The Gospel's Power to Save
Romans 1:16 states, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes." The power to save lies in the gospel itself, not in our abilities or eloquence. Our job is to share the message and trust God to do the rest. Many Christians feel the responsibility to be the super hero who swoops in to save non-believers from going to Hell. We need to remember that Jesus, the true hero, has already come and will come back again. Our role is to be unashamed that we know the way to be saved.
How Can You Be a Gospeler?
1. **Grow in Your Faith and Love**: As you deepen your relationship with God, you will naturally produce the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Fruit have seeds and one of the purposes of the fruit is so that the seeds might be dispersed. The fruit that results from growing in faith and love will naturally attract others to how great it is to follow God and give us a chance to share the gospel.
2. **Look for Opportunities**: Be attentive to moments when you can share the gospel. It could be a simple invitation to church, a conversation about faith, or an act of kindness that opens the door to sharing about Jesus.
3. **Trust in God's Power**: Remember that it is not your job to save people. Your role is to plant and water the seeds of the gospel, trusting that God will make them grow.
Questions to Reflect On
1. Who are the people in your gospel genealogy, and how did they impact your faith journey?
2. What fears or anxieties do you have about sharing the gospel, and how can you rely on God to overcome them?
3. How can you grow in your faith and love this week to become a more effective gospeler?
Conclusion
As we embark on this six-week series, let's commit to becoming gospelers who share the love of Jesus with the world. Remember, our role is to plant and water the seeds of the gospel, trusting that God will bring the growth. Let's embrace this call with joy and courage, knowing that we are not alone in this mission.
Join us next week as we continue to explore what it means to be a gospeler. And don't forget to get involved in a small group for a more interactive learning experience. Together, we can make a difference in the world by sharing the good news of Jesus Christ.