GOOD EVANGELISM HABITS: Over the summer, it’s easy for children to forget they still have the exciting privilege of sharing God’s Word with others. Sharing is oftentimes a scary thing to think about for children (and even many adults). I mean, walking up to complete strangers and asking them if they believe in Jesus… how unnatural to our flesh! That’s why it’s so important for children to learn good evangelism habits early on. Once they see that it’s really not that scary and that many people will at least respectfully listen, they’ll grow that much more lovingly bold at an early age. Never forget, we have the truth and the Lord on our side so we really have nothing to fear!
Because talking to others doesn’t always come easily, comprehensive, biblical tracts can be a nice way to break the ice. With that in mind, I’ve put together a simple, black and white Bible tract that parents can print and children can cut, fold, and color. (Reminder: Carefully read through tracts before purchasing or printing. Not all tracts are biblical. Sadly, many focus on man, not God.)
Click “HERE” to go to the Kid’s Tract PDF. Simply download it and print.
A SUMMER FAMILY PROJECT: Let evangelism be a fun summer family project. First, look up a few Bible verses on evangelism such as Matthew 28:19, Acts 1:8, and Romans 1:15-16 during your family devotional time. Then pray about making a certain day each week designated as an evangelism day. Start out by going to familiar areas such as your neighborhood houses and grocery stores. It goes without says, but please, please, please… Safety First. Perhaps also bring a small notebook to write down names and prayer requests from people you talk with. Then consider designating another day each week to pray specifically as a family for those you’ve shared with. Follow-up is always another great option. Again, please us godly wisdom when following up. Some situations may warrant going with another adult instead and then sharing the story with your children later.
EVANGELISM AS A LIFESTYLE: It’s definitely beneficial to designate specific times to focus on outreach and evangelism, but it’s as much of a blessing to share the good news of Jesus as part of our daily worship unto Him. We so often have our plans, but the Lord directs our steps. Sometimes the Lord’s plans might be interwoven. For example, we all go to the grocery store, gas stations, restaurants, etc. Why not use those day-to-day trips as opportunities to tell others about Jesus? I personally make a habit of asking waiters and waitresses if they have any prayer requests. Many are happy to share a little about their children, schooling, etc. Often, it opens a door for further conversation which hopefully leads to the truth about the Lord.
These daily demonstrations of our love for the Lord and others is key, not only for our own growth, but the growth of our children. Kids are so keen to recognize hypocrisy. If we simply go to church on Sunday mornings and have no other avenues demonstrating our Christian walk, they will quickly see the dichotomy in our lives. When our daily walk is so shallow, whether we mean to or not, what we’re really telling them is that Jesus is only a microcosm of our lives. Yes, He died for our sins. Yes, He rose from the grave. And although we’re happy to have Him as our Savior, we really resist letting Him be our All in All. We often are sending the very clear message that Jesus is important, but not really that important compared to everything and everyone else.
Having daily Bible study, prayers, discussions, application, biblical consequences in discipline, biblical education, outreach, and evangelism are all excellent tools in growing in the grace of God. They are also such a blessing to everyone around us.
“I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD: I will make mention of Your righteousness, even of Your’s only. O God, You have taught me from my youth: and hitherto have I declared Your wondrous works.” Psalm 71:16-17
“The living, the living, he shall praise You, as I do this day: the father to the children shall make known Your truth.” Isaiah 38:19
ICE BREAKERS: Often we struggle with how to make that first connection. Here are some thoughts on helping break the ice:
- Be genuine. Remember the person you’re talking with is a lost and eternal soul. Most people will at least listen when they see you really care. One good quote to remember, “Evangelism is a conversations, not a presentation.” Take time to listen and care, but also be sure to take time to then swing the conversation to Jesus.
- Handing someone a tract is a great ice breaker, but if you’re able, take the time to share the truth found in the tract.
- Ask questions. Ask questions. Ask questions. Many times, asking good questions helps open the door to good conversations. Here are a few: “Could I ask you a quick question?” “What are your thoughts about eternity?” “Do you think the Bible is an important book?” “We like to pray to Jesus. Do you have anything we could pray for?” Remember, if you’re going to ask questions, be ready to listen.
- Don’t forget to pray for the Lord to direct your steps and conversations. We always want to be led by the Spirit! After all, God knows best.
- Never forget to let the joy of the Lord be your strength. Although sharing is sometimes intimidating, it shouldn’t be daunting. Let the love of your Savior shine through. After all, He’s promised to never leave or forsake you. (Hebrews 13:5)
- The more we share, the easier it gets.
- Don’t listen to your flesh. Although there will be times you just can’t stop and talk, we often make excuses that shouldn’t be listened to. Your flesh will stir up all kinds of fear and doubt, but take those steps of faith with confidence. Open your mouth and speak. The Lord will do the rest. (Matthew 5:2, Acts 8:35, Acts 10:34)
- People are often willing to share their opinions about everything, so why not share in return?
- When in doubt, share the Gospel. You will never be able to answer every question. If you get stuck, there’s nothing wrong with simply going back to what you believe and why you believe it.
- Keep studying the Word. Although you’re not going to have all the answers, you want to keep studying the Word to prepare your heart and mind. It can also be helpful to do some research and watch others share with others. I often find helpful questions and answers by listening to other evangelizing. (2 Timothy 2:15, 1 Peter 3:15)
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who proclaims peace, who brings glad tidings of good things, who proclaims salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns!” Isaiah 52:7
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