Three reasons that may prevent us from sharing the Gospel
1. “I must build a ‘deep’ friendship first”
Building relationship is vital to influencing others with the Gospel. However, God’s Word is not dependent on delivery or relationship but on the power of the Holy Spirit. Hence, we do not have to wait for that deep friendship, for it may never come in the first place.
Also, waiting for months or years to share who Jesus is is like giving medicine to a dying person a year later. Remember, those without Christ are dead in their transgression because sin is a disease killing men spiritually.
Faith comes by hearing—not by friendship
Yes, relationships are essential, but faith comes by “hearing.” Your “good friendship” becomes selfish without proclaiming the Gospel. Even atheists or Muslims want good friendships with Christians, but you will NEVER hear them say, ‘Jesus is the only way to God.’
Your good friendship is selfish without proclaiming the gospel.
Romans 10:17
“ So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”
John 4:35-36
“Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, then comes the harvest’ Look, I tell you, lift your eyes, and see that the fields are white for harvest. The one who reaps is already receiving wages and gathering fruit for eternal life, so that sower and reaper may rejoice together.”
2. I’m waiting for the right time and the right words
There is a time for everything, but everything in life is connected to God’s plan for man’s salvation. Yes, we must wait for God’s perfect timing, but rarely will the Holy Spirit tell you this is it.
The chance to share a Bible verse comes in any discussion. Soldiers have shared the Gospel in trenches, others in airplanes and buses. Therefore, each time will always be the right time to talk about Jesus.
If you have experienced the saving grace of Jesus, you will always talk about Him.
God’s word is alive and active
It’s not always an ‘altar call’ you’re after. It’s sharing God’s words—a Bible verse. Satan tempted Jesus. He left because Jesus kept on quoting the scriptures.
If you have experienced the saving grace of Jesus, you will always talk about Him.
Hebrews 4:12
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
Isaiah 55:11
“So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.”
3. Fear of rejection
The fear of rejection is the most common reason that prevents us from sharing. We often trust in our ability—not God’s power.
However, the fear can also be rooted in not knowing “how to share the gospel.” That is why we need Bible studies to defend our Christian faith (apologetics).
It’s God’s work; our part is to share the word
Remember, Jesus told us to proclaim the Gospel (Matthew 28:16-20)—not convert people. That’s the work of God. The Holy Spirit is the author of conversion.
Jesus told us to proclaim the gospel not convert people.
John 15:26-27
“… the Spirit of truth who goes out from the Father—he will testify about me.”
John 6:44
“No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws them, and I will raise them on the last day.”
