Friday, October 30, 2009

ECCLESIASTES:

PROVERBS:

Wednesday, October 28, 2009

Related Bible Verses

1 John 2:16
For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride in possessions—is not from the Father but is from the world.

Luke 12:15
And he said to them, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

Hebrews 13:5
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Romans 12:2
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.

1 Timothy 6:10
For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

Ecclesiastes 12:13
The end of the matter; all has been heard. Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.

1 Timothy 6:9-10
But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare, into many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evils. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs.

Mark 4:18-19
And others are the ones sown among thorns. They are those who hear the word, but the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches and the desires for other things enter in and choke the word, and it proves unfruitful.

Hebrews 2:15
And deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery.

John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

Luke 16:19-31
“There was a rich man who was clothed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate was laid a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who desired to be fed with what fell from the rich man's table. Moreover, even the dogs came and licked his sores. The poor man died and was carried by the angels to Abraham's side. The rich man also died and was buried, and in Hades, being in torment, he lifted up his eyes and saw Abraham far off and Lazarus at his side. ...

Luke 16:1-31
He also said to the disciples, “There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was wasting his possessions. And he called him and said to him, ‘What is this that I hear about you? Turn in the account of your management, for you can no longer be manager.’ And the manager said to himself, ‘What shall I do, since my master is taking the management away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do, so that when I am removed from management, people may receive me into their houses.’ So, summoning his master's debtors one by one, he said to the first, ‘How much do you owe my master?’ ...

Matthew 27:3-5
Then when Judas, his betrayer, saw that Jesus was condemned, he changed his mind and brought back the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders, saying, “I have sinned by betraying innocent blood.” They said, “What is that to us? See to it yourself.” And throwing down the pieces of silver into the temple, he departed, and he went and hanged himself.

Revelation 21:4
He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.”

2 Peter 3:5
For they deliberately overlook this fact, that the heavens existed long ago, and the earth was formed out of water and through water by the word of God,

Hebrews 2:14
Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil,

John 8:44
You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father's desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and has nothing to do with the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

Mark 16:16
Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Matthew 25:46
And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.”

2 Samuel 17:23
When Ahithophel saw that his counsel was not followed, he saddled his donkey and went off home to his own city. He set his house in order and hanged himself, and he died and was buried in the tomb of his father.

Genesis 3:19
By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread, till you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; for you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
HelpfulNot Helpful
Genesis 2:7
Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.

Genesis 2:1-25
Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God finished his work that he had done, and he rested on the seventh day from all his work that he had done. So God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it God rested from all his work that he had done in creation. These are the generations of the heavens and the earth when they were created, in the day that the Lord God made the earth and the heavens. When no bush of the field was yet in the land and no small plant of the field had yet sprung up—for the Lord God had not caused it to rain on the land, and there was no man to work the ground, ...

Genesis 1:1-31
In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the face of the deep. And the Spirit of God was hovering over the face of the waters. And God said, “Let there be light,” and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. And God separated the light from the darkness. God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night. And there was evening and there was morning, the first day. ...

1 John 1:9
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

2 Thessalonians 1:8
In flaming fire, inflicting vengeance on those who do not know God and on those who do not obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus.

Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.

1 Corinthians 15:47
The first man was from the earth, a man of dust; the second man is from heaven.

Romans 12:1
I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.

Romans 10:9
Because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

Romans 8:19-22
For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not willingly, but because of him who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to corruption and obtain the freedom of the glory of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation has been groaning together in the pains of childbirth until now.

Romans 1:20
For his invisible attributes, namely, his eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly perceived, ever since the creation of the world, in the things that have been made. So they are without excuse.

Acts 23:8
For the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, nor angel, nor spirit, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all.

Acts 22:16

And now why do you wait? Rise and be baptized and wash away your sins, calling on his name.’

Acts 4:12
And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”

Acts 2:38
And Peter said to them, “Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Genesis 1:26
Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.”

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

People and Places

Finding someone to share Christ with is not a problem as there are lost people everywhere. I can witness anywhere in America and it is the same. The Holy Spirit will convict and people will come to Christ. Pray and see where you should witness. I would recommend that you try many different types of environments or settings. Parks, sidewalks, homes, malls, and fast food restaurants are all excellent places to witness. You will be surprised that many of the people you encounter will come to know Christ.

An excellent way for you to become comfortable with areas that you are witnessing in is to visit these areas several times before you witness. Pray in these areas as you visit them. I spend much time driving and walking through areas of poverty until I become comfortable in these areas. I changed my driving routes in town and drive through all areas to become familiar with different surroundings. The Lord seemed to be leading me to do this and it was so interesting to see how it has helped me. As you drive and visit these areas, you will see so many needs. Pray for those that may not know how to pray for themselves. Become familiar with unfamiliar surroundings.

Door To Door Evangelism

I take most people that I train door to door in the communities where their church is located. Door to door evangelism is one of the most difficult types of witnessing. However, it will produce decisions for Christ while making the community aware that your church cares. Be sure not to have too many people go to one door. Divide into groups as you go out and agree on a time and a place to meet back. Some doors will not open when you knock on them and others may slam as people are frustrated with you disturbing their privacy at their home. It is a little more difficult to witness to people in their own homes. However, I would highly recommend that you learn and experience door to door evangelism. You will see souls saved, whole families come to Christ, and many Christians currently not attending church find their way to your local church. Be sure and remind a new convert to be water baptized and this oftentimes leads them to attend your church.

You will speak to many Christians as you knock on doors. Be sure to not try to influence someone established in another church to attend your church. Our efforts should be that of evangelism and not to recruit people from other churches. I simply want to see people in a Christian church of their choice. It is more important that people attend any Christian church than a specific church. This type of unity with other churches will produce results and be received by the religious community as you evangelize areas. Too often, I have seen criticism of those who go door to door by other churches if witnessing teams try to direct other congregations to their church. Let's look for the lost and those who do not attend church and focus on them. Be sure and keep record of the homes that you have visited and the results learned from the visitation. You may use your records in the future to revisit the doors of the lost.

One afternoon we were going door to door in a city and saw a Laotian man standing in his yard watering his lawn. Several of us approached him and we began to make friends with him. We were so thankful that he could understand English. He had been heavily influenced by eastern religions and knew nothing about what we spoke. I saw an old dog walking across the street. I said, "Do you see that dog? Should a car run over him, his life is gone forever. However, should you get run over that is not the end of your life. We were made to live forever." The man leaped with joy and said, "I knew I was more than that dog. I knew! I knew! I knew!"

I went on to explain that God had written a book called the Bible and he took it from my hand and began to read. He sat down in the middle of his yard and read the scriptures that I had shown him. For once in his life he had found what he was looking for. He had found hope. That day in the middle of his yard we led him to Christ. I was so excited to see his expression to know that he would live forever in a place called heaven.

We went on down the street door to door and met many other people along that street. We witnessed for several hours and came back by this man's home as we walked to the church. He was still sitting in the middle of his yard reading his new Bible. Oftentimes you will see that God does such a deep work in the life of an individual. Our witness that day was not dynamic or special. We simply shared the basic truths of the Word and the whole time it seemed that God was speaking to his heart and knew what he needed to hear. He found hope and an opportunity to read the Words of his Creator to know what life in Christ is.

Fast Food Restaurants

Witnessing in fast food restaurants is so exciting and can be explosive. As we witness in a restaurant, we often see two or more people come to Christ at the same time. You need to be kind, avoid any debates and don't be pushy. If you are pushy or disturb people, you will be asked to leave by the manager or challenged by the person you are speaking to. I often will purchase a soda or food before I witness. As a patron of the restaurant, I have a right to be there. We are often so welcomed that people come to us for stickers and WWJD bracelets. Many times people will ask us for Christian materials and not even know Christ. It is in this kind of atmosphere that many will come to Christ. The atmosphere seems to be spiritually charged with the witness of Christ. As you witness you will see God move sovereignly as He wishes. We have seen many lost people find Christ in seconds as we witness in restaurants. I hope you enjoy the next example where a class we trained in California experienced witnessing in a restaurant.

I went to a beautiful church at Nipoma, California to teach a group from two different churches on how to witness in the streets. As I approached the platform to speak, I looked up at the pulpit and it just did not seem comfortable to me. I stepped down from the platform and told the group that the step would be my curb and the carpet would be my street. You see, I am more comfortable in the streets than in churches. I have spent so much time in the streets that it has become my church. Once again, I shared my heart with the people. I was so excited to see the tears from many that listened. It is the tears that are released from the heart. Certainly God was sharing His love for the lost of their community.

I was shocked to see so many hands go up when I asked how many wanted to go to the streets with me to witness. We prayed for the city and departed for a McDonald's located near the church. As I was leaving toward the restaurant I was reminded how difficult my ministry would seem. I am always a spectator and must wait to see what God is going to do in the lives of those we encounter. All those who had just listened to what God does in the streets were now ready to see lives changed. I remembered when I was on the plane on the way there praying, "God, you must move! The people of California are expecting you to begin a work in the streets." It seems that God spoke to my heart and said, "That is my responsibility and yours is to go." My ministry is totally dependent on the Holy Spirit to protect our lives and to convict and save souls.

At McDonald's, we stepped out of our vehicle, walked less than ten feet, and spoke to a lady by the pay phones. The young lady's name was Genese. The witness was so moving and yet was so typical. In response to questions about her relationship with Christ she said, "I pray. I pray everyday." Oh, I hear this so often! I asked her if she knew Christ and if He was in her heart. She said, "I believe in Him." I pursued the witness a little further and asked her if she was living for Christ. She was lost and without Christ. The witness and the Holy Spirit had brought her to a point of conviction. She only knew of Christ. We shared the scriptures from Romans 10:9-10 and she quickly came back to Christ. Within less than a minute someone had already found Christ. God is so good!

We went into McDonald's and before I could sit down, a customer called me to their table. I knew God was about to do something again. He was moving so quickly. I call these events explosions in the spirit when God is moving. I have seen this happen so many times in the streets. Sometimes it happens quicker than we can imagine. So I pulled up a chair and seated myself at the end of their table. I said to the family seated, "What's up?" They were curious about the orange sticker on my shirt. I told them it was a Jesus sticker and gave them one. I gave the children WWJD bracelets and simply tried to be friends with this family that showed an interest in my sticker. I have had gang members before ask what was in the bag I was carrying. It was so neat when I showed them it was Bibles and often they would come to Christ when I witness to them. Certainly God can stir someone's curiosity. Surely God looked down and arranged it for me to be at this table. I looked over my shoulder and the group from the church were seated around me at the nearby tables. They expected God to move and He did.

As all looked and watched I asked a young girl at the table about her relationship with Christ and she had fallen away from Him. God had already started working on her life and she quickly came back to Christ. Her name was Alyssa. I had new friends in California and another person came to Christ. Since the time we drove into the parking lot, less than ten minutes had passed and two people were now saved. Praise God! He was moving in the midst of all of those that watched.

Next, I told the pastor that the Holy Sprit was leading me to two people and I would like for him to assist me. I showed the pastor the lady that he was leading me to. I thought that we would miss her before we could reach her. She was at the register paying for her gas at the station adjoining McDonald's. We stood outside and waited. She then went to the payphone and we waited. Finally, she walked by us and we had an opportunity to speak to her. It seems her credit card was rejected and she now had time to wait and speak to us. She was waiting on a relative to pay for her gas.

We asked her several questions about her relationship with Christ. She was raised in a denomination that did not know Christ and had recently chose not to follow this doctrine. She seemed to be ready for a personal relationship with Christ. We showed her the scriptures and she came to know Christ. Her name was Regnal. Praise the Lord for that day she had chosen Christ. She then asked for the name of a church that she could attend. Now I introduced her to the pastor standing next to me. The pastor began to share with Regnal and immediately shared with her more about Christ. It seemed that Regnal enjoyed meeting with the pastor and accepted an invitation to visit his church. What a joy to have many from the church and the pastors in the streets as we witness!

We had one more person to speak to now. It was the cashier. We spoke to her and she was lost. She knew she needed to come to Christ. It seemed that before we could finish a sentence, another customer came to the register. We presented our witness a sentence at a time. In the midst of all of this, God still moved. We did not have an opportunity to pray, but I introduced her to the pastor. We agreed that he would come back at another time when things were not so busy and pray with her to lead her to Christ. Yes, this was most unusual but God moved.

It was now the end of our witness and we were excited about what God had done. I was glad that all had an opportunity to see the moving of the Holy Spirit in the lives of people in a restaurant setting.

Sidewalks and Streets

Witnessing on sidewalks and in the streets is my favorite type of witnessing. When you encounter someone on the sidewalk, they are out of their surroundings and more likely to respond.

Never allow fear to have a place in your witness. While you may be in a new area, remember you are there for the most important reason on this earth. You are there to share Christ and should not be afraid or ashamed.

Romans 1
16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

One night I was witnessing along the sidewalks and areas of a park when someone told me a story that I will never forget. The young men we were talking to were identified with gang. Whether they were gang members or not, no one knows. They were glad to see that we were bold about our witness to be in the park and alleys at night. They told us the story about a white van that occasionally drives into the park and throws tracts at them from the van window. The gang kid said, "I guess they feel better now." Could it be the kids in the van throwing tracts out at people felt they were fulfilling the great commission to share the Gospel. Your witness will never be effective if it is not personal and mixed with love for all people.

On another night in the same park a man was riding a bicycle along a road in the park. I said something to the man and he stopped. As I extended my hand to his I noticed how white his hand was. It seemed to have powder on it. I then saw his face as I was reaching for his hands. His eyes were so tired and his nose had powder going down from it all the way to his shirt. I then knew he had been shoving cocaine into his nose before I met him. I knew that moment how filthy that hand was since it was covered with drugs and fluids from his nose. However, I would not let that stop me from taking his hand and greeting him. I shook his hand and told him that God loves him and I care about people and wanted to share a message with him. His name was Charles.

He was ready to receive the message of Christ and prayed with me that night. I will always remember the man with the cocaine hand. I saw him from time to time in our city and he carried his small new testament everywhere he went. Late one night I was at a gas station witnessing and he came up to me and said, "Do you remember me?" I said, "Charles, is that you?" He was so happy and changed so dramatically that I almost didn't even recognize him. He looked like a different person now. He was so thrilled that I remembered his name. I learned that sometime later Charles died and I knew that God had arranged for me to meet Charles that night. What if I had not taken that filthy hand in the park that night? Would Charles have found Christ? I believe that God loved Charles so much that He sent His Son to die on a cross for his sins—just as He did for you. Never look at the conditions of lives as you minister. Let God use you to minister to all people.

Almost a year after Charles's death I was witnessing and led a lady to the Lord. That night I thought it was a typical witness but when I handed her a new testament she looked at it and me and said, "My dad carried one of these for years and read it every day. It had a sticker on it just like this one." I asked her the name of her dad and she said, "Charles." She cried when she found out that the same person who led her dad to Christ had just led her to Christ. She told me that her dad carried the new testament that I gave him everywhere he went. She said that he had hoped to be able to witness with me in the streets and that he was preparing for that by reading the new testament. I knew that night as I walked away God had arranged this special night for Charles's daughter and me. I knew without a doubt that God was in charge of all that happened.

Bars and Night Clubs

We do not recommend anyone to witness in a bar who would be tempted by such an environment. I have heard stories of someone who comes out of this life style and goes back in to witness and become entangled in sin once again. Therefore, if you intend to go into bars then ensure you are called to this type of ministry and that you are not recently out of this kind of environment. This is a totally different kind of witness and can be very peaceful and sometimes very explosive. While witnessing in a bar it is very important that you never say a word to judge anyone. Your words can often be misinterpreted in a bar and will lead to an argument.

When I go into a bar to witness, I usually pick out someone when I first enter the door and move slowly and witness to one person at a time. If you try to quickly cover the bar and move too fast you will be asked to leave. I never order anything in a bar and do not pretend to be a patron there. If you hand out too many tracts in the bar you will asked to leave. Never discuss the persons drinking or why they are in a bar. I only speak to the heart and not their habits or problems.

Respect Authority and Private Property

Occasionally when witnessing in public places you will encounter law enforcement personnel that may ask you to leave. Although you have a right to witness in a public place, it is imperative that you cooperate with law enforcement. Never have an encounter with a law enforcement officer. Policemen are there to keep peace and to ensure your safety. If you have a reoccurring problem with law enforcement asking you to leave an area you should report this to your pastor and let him work with the police department to resolve any misunderstandings.

To be a witness means that we must obey authority and live peacefully. I remember the Roman soldier that understood the message of Christ and the authority of his government.

Matthew 8
8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed.
9 For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under me: and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth; and to another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he doeth it.
10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

We must cooperate at all times with store owners who ask us to leave and with those in authority. Sometimes the presence of too many people witnessing in an area can create a problem for law enforcement. They are concerned anytime large amounts of people congregate in an area at night.

In my witnessing experience, I have been asked to leave very few private businesses and public places. Without exception I have always cooperated. I have been asked to leave many bars and clubs that we were witnessing in. If too many enter a bar it will cause a disruption or if you are too pushy you will be asked to leave. Bars are privately owned and you will have to cooperate. In bars that are in very bad areas, I will ask the owner or tell them what I am doing there and often times they will let me hand out the stickers and witness to a few people, especially when I place a time limit of how long I will be there.

I have been in the worst bar in our community that is shut down nearly every night for fights and drugs. However, the night we decided to go in we had about fifteen people we were training in the parking lot and only a few of us went to the door. I went to the door and the bouncer would not let me in. I told him that I must go in to talk to the people that God had led me there and asked to speak to the manager. He invited me in and the manager agreed that we could come in and he went out and invited the rest of my group in. I could not believe that he let all fifteen of us in this bar. We were given fifteen minutes to share our message and then to leave. I thank God for the experiences that we have seen as He has given us favor with all people. This was the third bar that I had ever been in and it was quite an experience. Every substance you could imagine was being smoked and drank inside. It was so sad to see the addictions. All of us wanted to reach all of the people for Christ that night. It took a move of God to get us in and we pray that even today lives would remain changed from our visit to that bar. Expect God to move and you will experience great joy when you see the results of His hand moving even upon the life of an unsaved bar owner to prepare the way to win others to Christ.

Witnessing in the Rain

There have been few times that rain has fallen in the streets while we were witnessing. We don't let the weather stop us when we go out. We simply witness where we can and go where the people are. You can take your teams to a laundromat, bus stations, airports, malls, covered sidewalks, recreation areas, and convenience stores. Each one of these areas presents its own challenges and excitement. We find that a greater harvest is found in areas of poverty. Most impoverished people are without hope and find it rare for people to care for them. Bus stations and laundromats are often areas where we find poverty and need. We find in the ministry of Christ that He was always moved by need and so is He today.

Matthew 9
35 And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people.
36 But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
37 Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;

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Sharing Christ

Who to witness to

When you are out witnessing, be in an attitude of prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to someone. It is important to have someone with you to help assist with any distractions from others. Your witness will be more effective if the person you are witnessing to can hear just you. If you are not sure who to speak to, then speak to everyone unless the Holy Spirit says not to. Jesus said that He was not willing any should perish.

Proverbs 3
27 Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.

Matthew 18
11 For the Son of man is come to save that which was lost.
12 How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?
13 And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which went not astray.
14 Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

Therefore, we should feel free to witness to anyone. However, I do not witness to young children. In today's society your intention to share Christ with a young child could be misinterpreted.

When someone tells you they are not a Christian or that they never professed Christ as their Lord and Savior then you should be prepared to lead them in prayer. First, I recommend that you pray a preparatory prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to convict them. This prayer seems to allow the words you speak to be heard by their heart. When I do not pray this prayer, many times the witness ends up in much discussion on their part about religion or some other subject.

The Approach

As you approach the person it is always a good idea to have something to give them. A Christian sticker or tract is always good to hand someone. Many times this is the easiest way to make contact with someone. Introduce yourself and listen for their name so you may use it later in your conversation. If they do not speak English, see if one of their children can interpret for you. I often use their family members to interpret for me as I witness. Also, see the chapter called "The Approach" for more detailed information on how to approach someone with your witness.

The Question

It is always a good idea to make general conversation first and try to enjoy their friendship. Say to them, "I must ask you a question before I leave. We are visiting everyone and ensuring that they know Jesus Christ as their personal Savior." Ask them the following:

"If you died tonight would you know without a doubt that you would go to heaven? Please answer as if God were listening."

While they are thinking, you should pray silently and ask the Holy Spirit to search their heart. Pray with your eyes open and don't let them see you pray. It could create confusion if they see you pray for them. If they respond with a yes, then ask the following:

"Have you prayed a prayer aloud and personally invited Him into your heart?"

Continue your conversation until you are assured that Christ is in them.

Next open your Bible and show them Romans 10: 8-10 and read it out loud. Place their name in the scripture where it seems appropriate. This makes the Word of God even more personal. It is a good idea to explain the scriptures as you go along. The following scriptures have some suggested comments added in them. The suggested comments that I use are in parentheses in the scriptures below.

Sharing the Scriptures

Romans 10
8 But what saith it? (Everyone wants to know what God is saying to them. The scriptures are asking what does God say. Well let's see together.) The word is nigh thee, (Hold the Bible out and show them. This says that the Word is near you. Even right in front of you.) even in thy mouth, (It is in my mouth right now and it could be in yours. I am speaking it now.) And in thy heart: (The Word is in my heart and it can be in yours.) That is, the word of faith, which we preach; (The Bible says that faith comes by hearing God's Word. The Word of God will actually give you the ability to believe. But, we must say it aloud and let our heart hear it and faith will come.)
9 That if thou (Place their name in place of thou.) shalt confess with thy (Place their name in place of thy.) mouth the Lord Jesus, (The Bible says that we make a confession out loud. Let's see what happens when we do this.) And shalt believe in thine (Place their name in place of thine.) heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Ok, it says that if we say we believe that Jesus is Lord and God raised Jesus from the dead, we will be saved. But, He has asked us to confess the scriptures out loud. He will help us to believe. Let's look at the next verse.)
10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; (Remember He will give you the ability to believe.) And with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. (The Bible asks us to say it aloud. When we do this, we are doing what God has asked us to do to be saved. )

After I have read and explained the scriptures, I tell them, "You too can have the Word in your heart and be saved right this moment and you can know without a doubt that you will go to heaven when you die. If you would like to pray that prayer to confess Christ as your Lord then simply take my hand right now and we will pray together." You see it is easier to take someone's hand and thereby say yes than to first say yes with their voice. Also, this gives you a point of contact as you pray for them.

Now pray the sinners' prayer with them that we discussed and tell them about this new life that they have just received. It is always a good idea to give them a tract that has the scriptures you used in it and to give them a Bible. I always like to write their name in their Bible and the date they were saved. Also, I write the scripture references that I used in the front of the Bible.

Prayer of Rededication

Oftentimes while someone has accepted Jesus Christ as their personal Savior once in their life, they may not be living for Him right now. They may be backsliden and according to their own words feel they would not go to heaven if they were to die. I find that almost one-third of those I speak to in the streets once knew Christ and have fallen away. It is so important to ask the Question and issue the invitation to receive Christ even if they have once been saved. I generally use the same techniques on those that have backsliden as I use with those that have never known Christ. We do ask them if they want to come back to Christ instead of asking if they want to know Christ. Sometimes those that have fallen away have become hardened to the scriptures and God.

Now you may ask them if they would like to rededicate their life. And say the following:

"If you feel that He is not as close to you as when you first began to walk with Him or if you have fallen away, would you like to pray and rededicate your life right now? Then simply take my hand and we will pray together." This gives you a point of contact as you pray for them. It is a very important point to note that you will lead the prayer. I have seen some confused and did not want to come to Christ because they did not know how to pray. Make it clear that you will lead them in prayer. Also, I have seen that those that I train will have more success if they ask for someone to respond by an acknowledgment of simply taking your hand, and thereby saying yes in their heart to praying with you.

If they say yes, then have them pray the following aloud. Tell them sometimes it is best to begin new with Christ when someone has fallen away.

Sinner's Prayer

"Father, in Jesus Name I ask you the best way I know how that you forgive my sins and take my life and direct it, lead it, and guide it, all the days of my life. I want to know You in a more personal way and help me to grow in Your Word. I believe that You died on the Cross for me and that You were raised from the dead. I confess You as my Lord. In Jesus name I pray. Amen."

This New Life

Now tell them how to walk in this world and that life is a series of decisions and we must make the decisions that our heart and the Word of God is telling us. This is called repentance and that is turning away from what we know is wrong. I never tell them what to do, I let the Holy Spirit tell them about what things in their life they need to deal with. God deals with all of us differently and we must let God do the work in their lives. I tell them that their life is a long journey and they will sin and do things wrong but it is important to know that we can ask for the Lord to forgive us. We should ask for His forgiveness and protection everyday as we walk in this world. Ask them to tell someone what has happened to them. It is a good idea to give them a Bible and materials that explain their new life in Christ.

Preparatory Prayer

As you share Christ with others you will see people reject your witness. I saw several people that did not come to Christ one day and I talked to the Lord about it. I said, "Lord what is wrong? Why didn't those people get saved." The Lord said, "You did not pray for them." I knew I had heard from God and couldn't wait to share Christ with the next person. I knew that I would see many come to Christ. Sometimes those that had fallen away from God had became hardened to the scriptures and to God. Other times people's lives may be spiritually influenced by the enemy. Therefore, I offer to have a word of prayer with them before I share the scriptures. I call this prayer the "Preparatory Prayer."

The Lord showed me that by having a prayer with someone that I felt would be a difficult witness would enable the Holy Spirit to have access to their heart. The preparatory prayer is a request for the application of the Blood of Jesus on their heart. Through prayer the Lord will cause the enemy to be bound from interrupting the witness. In the prayer we ask that the Holy Spirit would make my words clear and help them to understand. The Holy Spirit will cause your words to penetrate deep into their heart. Also, they are now expecting us to share something with them before they go. Lastly, we ask that they would have long life and long health as it is mentioned in Psalm 91:16. Certainly you would listen to anyone that prayed for you to have long life and health. Also, we are using the power of agreement with the person. If the person and you are in agreement with your prayer it sets the stage for God to produce a miracle in the person's life. In the scriptures below we can see the power of prayer available to bind the enemy in verse eighteen. The power of agreement is in verse nineteen. The Lord has promised in verse twenty to be present when we are gathered in His name.

Matthew 18
18 Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
19 Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.
20 For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

I have seen example after example where people rejected my initial witness and then I prayed the preparatory prayer with them, then I would see them come to Christ. As you pray it is a good opportunity to touch their shoulder or hold their hand, if appropriate. I believe that by touching them on the shoulder or taking their hand that contact is made in a spiritual way. They can feel the love of God and His anointing can flow through you into their heart. I pray similar to this prayer:

"Father in Jesus Name, we ask that you would touch them and strike the Blood of Jesus across their heart. Father, give understanding to my words as I speak and help them to know you in a more personal way. Lord, it is our prayer that the Holy Spirit would surround them with conviction and that your mercy would be poured into their life. And Lord, give them long life and health and help them to follow you all the days of their life. Lord, we ask for a hedge of protection about them. In Jesus name we pray. Amen."

After the prayer, I read Romans 10:8-10 to them and issue another invitation and I have seen person after person pray to receive Christ. I feel that praying for them made the difference. When I am in a bad area in the heart of an inner city, I will often begin my witnesses with the preparatory prayer. When I approach them and introduce myself I will say, "Let me pray and ask God to bless you." As I am asking, if I can pray for them, I reach and place my hand on their shoulder. Most people will respond and allow you to pray for them.

I remember the first time that I prayed the preparatory prayer. I was visiting a friend's mother that was thought to be terminal with an illness. It was imperative that she become saved since it was not known if she would live or die. Family members and others had tried to share Christ with her and she would not pray with them. I approached her bedside and was about to pray when I thought it was important to follow the leading of the Lord. He wanted me to first pray for her before I issued the invitation. I prayed a simple prayer and then issued the invitation. To everyone's surprise she held my hand and followed me in a prayer inviting Christ into her heart. The presence of the Holy Spirit was so wonderful that day as she was saved. Although she departed this earth from her illness, we knew that she had indeed received Christ. She was the first of thousands that would come to know Christ from the preparatory prayer. Let the Lord touch lives as you reach out and pray the preparatory prayer.

Building a Bridge

While I witness, I often notice many people who want to come to Christ lack the courage to respond. It is important that we build a bridge to help them find the strength to overcome the hindrances that discourage them from accepting Christ.

I was witnessing to a young man in Oshawa, Ontario and he had a genuine interest in coming back to Christ. However, as I witnessed, his father was watching, and the son felt uncomfortable responding to Christ. I took a few steps sideways and blocked the view between him and his father and spoke more quietly. I was creating a better environment for the witness. I tried to make it easier for him to come back to Christ. The young man rededicated his life to Christ.

In Paris, Arkansas, I was witnessing to three ladies in a park. I sensed that two of the ladies did not have a relationship with Christ. When I issued the invitation to come to Christ, the ladies looked at each other but no one would admit they were away from Christ. It was time to help them come to Christ. I said, "Let's all take hands and I want to lead you in a prayer." I told them to pray this prayer like they meant it. I led them together in the sinners' prayer. I asked, "Who prayed that prayer and meant it and came back to Christ ?" Again, they all looked at each other and no one said anything. I said, "You two ladies came back to Christ didn't you?" They admitted that they did and now tears seemed to come to their eyes. This was the first time I noticed that people really need help to express their emotions, and to build a bridge to Christ. All of us have different emotions and I believe that we should do anything we can do to help someone to Christ. We helped them overcome pride and find Christ.

Also, when I am witnessing I will issue an invitation for someone to come to Christ. I have seen some issue an invitation by simply saying, "Do you want to pray to receive Christ?" Most will say no because they do not know how to pray and they are too embarrassed to do this on their own. They do not understand what it is they are being asked to do. I make it easy for them to respond to Christ and make it clear what they can do to receive Christ. Again, this bridge will help them to respond. I have noticed that people want, with all of their heart, to respond but just cannot. I will say to the person, "If you want to receive Christ, take my hand." I warmly extend my hand close to them and make it easy for them to take my hand. I will then say, "I will pray now, and you can follow me in a prayer to invite Christ into your heart." Helping others pray is an important bridge to Christ.

I sat down on a curb beside a homeless man in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to be closer to him and not look down on him. By sitting with him, I was able to identify more with the man and build a bridge to Christ. He became comfortable with me sitting with him, and we had an enjoyable discussion. After a few minutes, I changed the focus to Christ. The man quickly came to Christ and seemed to be saved and became my friend. I recorded Morris's name in my journal so that I will always remember our talk on the curb. It is so important that we learn how to identify with those we speak to and create the best possible opportunity for them to hear the gospel and be converted to Christ.

The technique of building a bridge is what we see in church services. When we see a pastor invite people in a service to Christ, we see an invitation given with everyone's eyes closed and for those wanting to accept Christ to raise their hand. This method is similar to what we do in the streets. While the techniques vary, the idea is still the same. We are trying to make the person feel comfortable in coming to Christ. In church, a pastor is asking for a response of a raised hand. In the streets we are asking for a response of an extended hand.

While techniques are useful and important, it is most important to allow the Holy Spirit to give the person the courage and conviction to come to Christ. All of us can remember when we came to Christ. We can remember the conviction that we felt and the courage that we had to respond. The most important bridge back to Christ is by the person of the Holy Spirit.

Delay of the Heart

Understanding more about witnessing will help us be a more effective witness. I have witnessed to so many individuals that I have noticed something that I will call a delay of the heart. The Lord deals with all of us differently and our hearts are all different. I noticed as I spent more time with some individuals, I saw interesting results. Many who had already said they were saved or those who said that they were not interested seemed to experience conviction and the Holy Spirit would begin to deal with their hearts. Oftentimes these responses would surprise me. It seems the Holy Spirit needs more time with some individuals. It is so important to sow the Word of God into someone's heart and be sure and wait for it to be nourished.

1 Peter 1

23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.
24 For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away:
25 But the word of the Lord endureth for ever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you.

It seems the delay is as if a seed is growing and a war is being waged for the soul. Is the delay from the heart? Could it be that the world that has entered tries to choke the Word and we must give time for the Word to come forth as a seed.

Mark 4
18 And these are they which are sown among thorns; such as hear the word,
19 And the cares of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in, choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
20 And these are they which are sown on good ground; such as hear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.

A pastor and I were going to witness for about an hour since it was so cold outside. I could see he was really enjoying going door to door. Now the pastor and I walked back to the same park that I had witnessed in earlier. We saw several kids playing basketball. We walked across the park and talked to the kids. It was a text book witness. We asked the kids if they were saved and they said, "Yes." Then I probed further and asked if they had ever prayed to receive Jesus Christ as Lord and they had not. One young boy was eager to give his heart to the Lord and as I took his hand the pastor and I noticed something happening to the other young boy. We noticed he was crying and reaching out like he was blind while trying to take our hands. It seemed that he was experiencing a tremendous conviction by the Holy Spirit. The pastor asked if he wanted to give his heart to the Lord and he said, "Yes." Both young men accepted Jesus as Lord. It was a beautiful witness day. I will remember this day and I will return in hopes of more souls.

Several months later a deacon from my church and I went back to this same park to witness. We met the eleven year old boy who was saved as the Holy Spirit seemingly convicted so strong. He was playing basketball on the same basketball courts that I had spoke to him before. I remember this boy had something unusual happen to him as a pastor and I witnessed to the other boy that day.

This boy told us his story in his own words. It was a powerful testimony and so pure. He told us that he had been saved on the basketball court and he has new friends. It seemed that he had not chosen the friends but they found him. The Lord prepared him new friends. I told him that I remember him standing beside a pastor as we started to pray for another young man. I said that I remembered him crying, reaching out, and being overtaken by God as he asked for salvation. I asked him to tell us what had happened that day. He said that God spoke to him that he must be saved at that moment and that he felt the presence of God going through him. It was interesting to hear what happened to this boy in his own words. Surely God was on the basketball court that day through the person of the Holy Spirit.

We gave him a WWJD bracelet and explained what it meant. I am sure God will keep this young man. It seems that He chose Him on the basketball court. I was excited to see that day on the court as we saw the convicting power of the Holy Spirit radiate onto this young man as we prayed with another.

This is what it is all about. The fruit remains and the young boy was changed, not by us but by the power of God. Continue to pray for those that come to know Christ in the streets that God would keep them from evil.

I thought later that the convicting power of God took longer for Robert than his friend. We should be sensitive to the Holy Spirit and allow Him time to work in the hearts of those who we speak to. We need to take our time with the one person we are speaking to and not be concerned or distracted with anything else. Have we missed opportunities to win others to Christ by expecting an immediate response? While we see people saved sometimes as quickly as in six seconds, let's be prepared for those that require longer for the Lord to deal with them.

Psalms 25
2 O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
3 Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
4 Show me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
6 Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
7 Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness' sake, O LORD.

On another occasion, we met a young girl in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and her name was Candy. She was sitting on the passenger side of an old red pickup truck. We shared with her about Christ, and I asked the Question as I extended my hand and placed it on the ledge of the pickup window. She looked at my hand, and for some reason, just sat there and trembled with conviction. At an early age, Candy had already been involved so deep in sin that it was difficult for her to make a decision. It was so sad to watch as she tried but could not take my hand to receive Christ.

Her mother returned to the truck, and I spoke to her as I left my hand on the truck window's ledge for Candy to take. The mother said that they both were Christians. I told her mother that Candy was not a Christian and was lost in this world and for her to begin praying that her daughter would come to Christ. As her mother cried, I waited and waited. Finally, about ten minutes later it seemed to take all her strength to reach and take my hand. Candy took my hand that day and I was glad that I waited for her to come to Christ. I was so excited to see this miracle of salvation as Candy was born again. There seemed to be a delay in Candy's heart as the Holy Spirit worked within her soul. Candy wanted to make the decision, once and for all, for Christ. Was it unusual to lead someone to Christ in a pickup truck? Should I have waited until she somehow found the front door of a church? Would she had the courage to come? Only God knows!

In the Bible, we have seen many examples of delays working in the life of an individual. We can see that the answer to Daniel's prayer was delayed twenty-one days.

Daniel 10
12 Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.
13 But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.

While the Lord answers immediately, it seems that Daniel's prayer was delayed from spiritual influences in this world. Oftentimes, we see this in the lives of those that we speak to as they try to choose between Christ and that which they plan to do even that night or next week. The Holy Spirit causes all of us to deal with sin and offers us a choice to receive Christ.

Psalms 130
5 I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, and in his word do I hope.
6 My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning: I say, more than they that watch for the morning.

The Approach

The Approach

Preparation

Approaching someone can oftentimes be the most important part of the witness. As Jesus Christ approached someone, He did not approach them with some great precision nor did He try to impress. He approached, however, with an overwhelming love and friendship to the person that He was approaching that they were overwhelmed with something they had never felt before. They experienced a supernatural expression of God being shared through Him. As we can see in the scripture below, Jesus has told us how He prepared Himself to share with others. He sanctified Himself so others may be sanctified. He prayed that others may believe in Him through the Word. He asked the Father to give others the same relationship He had. He shared His Glory and wanted all to have it. This is the attitude that we need when we approach someone. We want to present all that God is to them in the hope that they will commit all that they are to God. Yes, the approach begins with us as we spend time in prayer and sanctification. Prepare your heart and your life to allow the Holy Spirit to flow through you to others. Remember that your witness is an expression of your life and the life you experience in God. Be prepared to share by spending time in preparation.

John 17
17Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.
18 As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world.
19 And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth.
20 Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word;
21 That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us: that the world may believe that thou hast sent me.
22 And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
24 Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world.
25 O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.
26 And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them.

Approaching in the Streets

Witnessing on the sidewalks and public places is my favorite method of witnessing. I am often amazed to see how quickly individuals receive Jesus Christ as their Lord right on a public sidewalk. When I approach someone, I have something in my hand to give them. If you try to stop them on the sidewalk by speaking to them it is difficult to get their attention. This is true especially in airport terminals and other busy public areas. People seem to be busy and will pass you by.

I have found it necessary to have a Christian sticker to give them. However, don't let material be a substitute for the witness of the Word of God. Remember that a tract or sticker is simply a means of contact. We are to be the witness and not to simply rely on material. If you use a tract, they are not as interested because of other groups such as cults and political advocates that are distributing literature. However, it seems that a sticker gets their attention. As they hold it in their hand they will begin to read it and stop to listen to what you have to say. In a busy area, the sticker can also serve as a way to identify the people you already have spoken with. You should have a sticker on your shirt to be an example of someone wearing one. I sometimes hand them a sticker with the paper off of it exposing the sticky part of the sticker. Now they have to deal with the sticker and it is easier for them to put it on rather than holding it or placing it in their pocket. Oftentimes, people in the streets begin to see the stickers and actually come to me to get one. Many times, they ultimately receive Jesus Christ as their Savior or rededicate their lives to Him after they come to get a sticker. I say to them as I offer a sticker, "Let me give you a Jesus sticker." I have seen those that I witnessed with ask, "Do you want a Jesus sticker?" When they ask if someone wants a sticker, people will usually say no. When you say, "Let me give you a sticker," people seem to extend their hand and receive the sticker. The words we choose to say in our approach are very important.

Now that I have them stopped by giving them a sticker or placing it on their shirt, I continue my approach. I may make general conversation about the day or their children if they do not appear to be in a hurry. I allow the Holy Spirit to direct me at this point to ensure He speaks to them what He would want to say. Truly, He knows their heart and will help you to share. Trust Him to lead you while you are speaking to them. It is very important to look directly in their eyes with a smile and introduce yourself and tell them why you are out on the sidewalks or knocking on their door. I say, "Hi, my name is Ricky and I am witnessing in the streets today. What is your name? Are you a Christian?" As I introduce myself, I have my hand extended and warmly shake their hand. Don't be surprised if at this moment they begin to cry because of the convicting power of God beginning to work within them. Time after time, I have witnessed the Holy Spirit prepare someone's heart in such a powerful way that they are immediately convicted. As I continue with my witness, I ask them the Question after I shake their hand. I say, "If you died tonight, would you know without a doubt that you would go to heaven?" Sometimes I ask the person, "Are you living for Him now?" This simple question produces effective results. Although the person may have first said they were a Christian, they are convicted when we ask them if they are living for Him now. It is at this point that we ask if they would like to come back to Christ. You will find many respond to this simple method of witness.

Initially, it seemed to be difficult for me to approach a large group of people. I was concerned that I might be embarrassed by their reaction. However, after I have spent so much time in the streets I have seen the Holy Spirit save several people at one time. Don't let fear have an effect on your witness. When I feel the Holy Spirit say that it is time I say, "Let's take hands now. I'll lead you in prayer to receive Jesus Christ as Lord." I continue to say, "Be bold and do it right now!" as I take their hand. I have seen even those in a gang take my hand to receive Christ. Don't expect a negative reaction. Also, as you approach, don't distinguish someone's dress or actions. If we let the way people look affect how we witness to them, then we are trying to do the works within ourselves rather than with the Person of the Holy Spirit. Allow Jesus Christ to have compassion on this world and speak through you to the homeless, the poor, and all that come across your path. As you allow this love of God to stir your heart, you too will be blessed. God loves all people and wants to use you to share with them.

John 3
16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

After spending time in the streets I am comfortable talking to anyone. I am not moved by rejection or rudeness. I simply continue on down the road to the next person in expectation that at least one person will come to know Him. It is so wonderful to see the one come to know Jesus Christ. Yes, I have seen gang members come to know Him, along with drug users, homeless people, those just released from prison, doctors, business men, and young people.

Matthew 25
35 For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in:
36 Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink?
38 When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee?
39 Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?
40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Remember not to approach young children without their parents present. You should approach the parents of young children, and ask permission to give their children a sticker. This is very important to remember in today's society. Your actions could be quickly misinterpreted by parents or others watching.

Approach people in the streets with boldness and with mercy for everyone. Allow the Holy Spirit to use you to lead others to the Lord Jesus Christ. If you approach others by first spending time in prayer and preparation, your results in the streets will produce many changed lives.

Going Door To Door

The church should be focused on door to door evangelism. The church in the book of Acts witnessed in the streets as we can see in the scripture below.

Acts 5
42 And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.

We should remember that those that we witness to by going door to door may never have attended a conventional church. Others may have once attended a church and have been hurt and plan to never return. Some may have never even had an opportunity to receive Jesus Christ as their Lord. With all this in mind, we need to witness with an attitude of understanding as we approach someone's door and be prepared for whatever the reaction is. Oftentimes, I receive strong reactions when going door to door. I have seen entire families come to the Lord as I am invited into a home, while other times I have a door slammed in my face. Your efforts will produce results and many will be saved if you knock on enough doors.

I approach door to door evangelism first as a way to make friends that I have never met before. I simply walk down the street or sidewalks praying silently and ask the Holy Spirit to go before me. I go to a door and ring the bell. Then I step back a few steps so those inside can see me through the glass in the door. Stepping away from the door makes the person opening the door less fearful. If you stand too close to the door, you will produce fear instead of a witness for Jesus. When they come to the door, tell them why you are there. I would say, "Hello, my name is Ricky and I am with a local church, and I am visiting everyone in our community. Let me give you a sticker. If you have any children may I give you more stickers?" I often notice if there are children in the home by the bicycles, playground equipment, stickers on the children's windows, and sounds in the home. Notice when I said the name of my church that I did not say the denomination. Saying the denomination of the church immediately may cut off your witness with the person. When handed a sticker they will take it and look at it. While they are looking at the sticker, ask them if they attend church. Pay close attention here. When you hear any delays in their response or reaction, you will quickly know the condition of their heart. Sometimes people tell me they attend a certain church, but in actuality they may have attended the church many years ago. You can discover this by asking if they are currently attending. Sometimes they will tell you the name of a church, and yet they are as lost as anyone you will ever meet. After discussing what church they attend, I will then ask them the Question. I say, "If you died tonight, would you know without a doubt that you would go to heaven?" Be prepared to lead them to the Lord as the Holy Spirit prepares their heart.

If your witness results in someone saying that they are not interested, then say, "Let me give you this tract, please." You may ask if you can return some other time. It is always better to at least get gospel material into their home or have an opportunity to return rather than simply getting a negative response. Be sure to point out the service times on the tract and invite them to attend your church. Some people may feel more comfortable coming to your church rather than praying with you at the door. I do not leave gospel material at the home if no one comes to the door. I always want to place it directly in someone's hand.

If you are invited into a home and the person is of the opposite sex, be sure someone else is home before you accept an invitation to enter. Being invited in a home most often results in someone or many being saved. Don't stay past your welcome and be sure to invite them to know Jesus Christ soon after you are welcomed in the home. Oftentimes, if you wait too long a distraction will appear and your opportunity to witness will be lost. If the entire family is there, ask everyone the Question at the same time. You may be surprised to see all come to the Lord. When you are in the home, if they smoke or if the television or radio is on, ignore it. Witness in the environment presented. You will never have a perfect opportunity to witness, and your efforts to create one will make people angry or disturbed with you.

Fast Food Drive Ins

Have you ever seen anyone come to the Lord in 10 seconds? You will when you witness at a fast food restaurant. You will have to move quickly because you do not have long to present the gospel. Prayer and being led by the Holy Spirit is really the key to leading someone to the Lord at a fast food drive-in. I once witnessed to a young girl at a drive-in as she stood across the island and handed me my food. I asked her if she went to church as I was getting ready to leave. I notice she hesitated for a moment with her answer. I said with a really big smile, "Come over here." She walked around the island and to my driver door. I extended my hand and said, "Just take my hand and receive Christ right now." She did it and in a few seconds she was saved. My efforts were the answer to her mother's prayers. I had asked her if she had a church to attend, and she told me that her mother had been inviting her for a long time and she will attend the next service. She was so excited to receive Christ. An evangelist was with us in the van and as she watched she could not believe how easy it was to lead someone to the Lord. Weeks later we visited the young lady, and she was still going to her mother's church.

It is exciting to give Jesus stickers to someone at a drive-in window and ask them to hand others stickers. Although they have never witnessed before, they will sticker everyone they work with in the restaurant. Surely Christians can be as enthusiastic as a waiter or waitress in a restaurant. If the drive-in has two windows, then you have two opportunities to witness.

When witnessing inside a restaurant you should not create any disturbances. If you witness with stickers or tracts you will be able to move from table to table without much disturbance if you are non-confrontational and move quickly. Placing tracts inside menus at your table and leaving them beside the salt and pepper shakers will sometimes be a witness for someone that finds the material.

Pay Phone Witness
Late one night I was witnessing with our team in Toronto,Ontario on the parking lot of a convenience store. I had met so many people on this parking lot over the years and have seen so many of them saved as we shared Christ with them. I walked up to a group of pay phones as I had done so often and handed out a Jesus sticker. What I did not know was that something interesting was about to happen. Every few weeks we see the manifested presence of the Holy Spirit upon the lives of those we witness to.

I handed a young lady a Jesus sticker as she was talking on the phone. I smiled and said, "God bless you." As I was about to walk away, I saw her begin to cry and she was distracted from the phone call by the emotion that had suddenly gripped her. She immediately hung up the phone and just stood there crying. She seemed to be standing in the convicting power of God. I said to her, "How long has it been since you walked away from Christ." She said, "It has been too long." I said, "Then take my hand and follow me in a prayer to know Christ." She prayed and seemed to find a new relationship with Christ. She said that as she received the sticker that she felt the Lord showing her the lostness of her life. She said that she was talking to her mother in New York about all the problems in her life and was wanting to find comfort. She now found comfort in knowing that the Lord touched her life.

Many times in the streets we see the Lord directing us to lives that are hurting. I participated little in the witness of this young lady, and yet I saw the Lord so powerfully touch her soul. To see the Lord convict a soul with an outward expression as we saw reminds me Who is changing hearts in the streets. All the Lord needed that night was an outstretched hand and a voice to lead her in prayer.

"It seems that much of witnessing is not as much our ability but our availability." Arthur Blessitt

How To Witness

I have seen many approaches to witnessing and many books on the subject. Many of the teachings are based upon an organized way to lead someone to the Lord. We choose to teach how to rely more upon the Person of the Holy Spirit and the scriptures in our witness. We have no formulas or complicated methods to win the lost. The most powerful witness is allowing the love of God to flow through you as you witness. People in the streets or those we meet as we go door to door can quickly see through a person. They know if you genuinely care for them. Remember to make friends first, then share the gospel with them.

Your witnessing will be more fruitful if you see the heart of the person you are speaking to. I try to listen to the person. Allow them to speak all they want. Allow yourself to see their heart. Oftentimes their words will describe their heart. We find many people that are hurting and turned off by religion. Don't jump into their conversation and interrupt it. Let them share all their hurt with you. Listen to the heart of the person and be sensitive to what they are saying. Tell them that you care and that you feel that this is why you are in the streets. People will then understand that you care for them. Take time with the one person you are with. Don't be thinking about the time or anything else. Give that one person all of your attention. They are the reason that you are in the streets. Now when you speak, you will speak with your heart into their heart. The very love of God will penetrate their heart. As you share the scriptures with them don't just read it. Experience the scriptures with them. Let it come into your own heart as you read it like it is the first time that you heard it. When you pray the sinners' prayer with them, pray with the same emotion and compassion as the first time you prayed it. If you will open your heart while you are witnessing, the Holy Spirit will lead you and speak through you. He will give you the words to speak to that one person that He has lead you to.

Our simplest and yet most effective example comes from the Book of Acts. Philip was led by the Holy Spirit to an Ethiopian and was effective in leading him to Christ and on to water baptism. All of my witness in the streets has followed this simple pattern. Yes, the words and the surroundings may vary, but the methods do not. We must allow ourselves to be led by the Spirit of God, use the scriptures, explain them, and ask the question. Also, we need to share with them about water baptism and this new life they have experienced.

Pray that the Holy Spirit will lead you

Acts 8
26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.

Share the witness
30 And Phillip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.

Use the Word of God
35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and
preached unto him Jesus.

Ask the question
37And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.

Water Baptism
38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.

Lead them in prayer and share about the new life and water baptism.

We should be excited and bold with our witness and not let an abnormal world make us an abnormal witness. Your witness must be motivated from deep within you. One who has chosen to be a witness for Christ must be willing to be an example of Him. Others are watching your life. I was witnessing to an eighty-three year old man and he said something interesting to me. He was saying that the Bible he reads is people's lives. He watches their lives to see if the gospel is true. Apparently, he had found no one in his opinion who was an example of Christ. However, we should note that it is sad if there are few living the life of a Christian as found in the Word. This man did receive Christ as his Lord after we shared the scriptures with him. It was not our life that impressed him to be saved, but it was the scriptures. I am sure that most who had previously witnessed to him pursued the argument rather than the witness of Christ. It is so sad that he found no example all those years. Allow the love of God to flow into others' lives. Don't allow the world to control your witness but rather speak to the heart. Also, allow your Christian love to flow into them. When we met this man he was going through trash cans to search for aluminum cans. His clothes and hands were dirty, yet we extended our hands and a hug to him as we extended our hearts. Allow the Lord to love others through you.

It is the Lord's will that all be saved. I have often thought that if you know enough to be saved, you know enough to witness. The assurance we find in the scriptures for our own salvation are often the same scriptures used to present the gospel. Oftentimes when we see people's circumstances or their appearances, we wonder if God can really save them. Yes, the Lord can save anybody and He can use you to lead them. It is so important that we don't debate religion, but simply witness with the truth. Witnessing is not a plan but it is presenting the person of Jesus Christ. It is not a method that saves, it is the message. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Let's rely more upon the Holy Spirit than our techniques.

To know Jesus you must repent, believe, and have knowledge. We should let the emphasis and focus be on Christ. It is very important to use the Word of God when we witness. Take a Bible with you when witnessing to be identified as a follower of Jesus Christ. People are convicted just by the Word of God. You should open the Bible and point to the verse so the person that you are witnessing to can read the Word of God with you. Be sure and have them read it or you can read it and put their name in the scriptures where it seems appropriate. Have the Word of God with you at all times. If you don't have the Word with you it indicates you don't think you are going to need it. When you carry the Word, you are prepared for God to use you.

If someone says they don't believe the Bible, you should act like you didn't hear them the first time and continue reading. If they say that they don't believe the Word, then say, "Then it won't hurt you will it?" If they continue to say they do not believe the Word, then say, "What is there about Romans 6:23 that you don't believe?" Read the scripture to them and explain to them that since salvation is a free gift and if hell is a real place, then it would not hurt them to pray and allow the Lord a chance to show them that He is real.

Romans 6
23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Quickly you will see that they are discussing the Word of God with you. Always remember that it is not you convicting them, it is the Holy Spirit. It is not your words but the words of the Holy Spirit. If they are going to argue, let them speak until they are finished and simply use the Word and stay with the message of the Cross and the Word of God. You should have only one purpose and that is to share Christ by using the Word of God. Don't get sidetracked. Just simply share Christ. Don't defend your church but rather just talk about Jesus. God is able to produce the fruit of a new birth from the scripture you share with them from your heart.

Our witness must be consistent and we should establish a pattern of witnessing all the time. I go out witnessing almost every weekend whether I feel like witnessing or not. Every time I begin witnessing I am so glad I came. Oftentimes, I wonder when someone is saved what would have happened if I had not come. Sometimes we will sow seed as we witness. Sometimes we will harvest seed. We can be an effective witness and we can plant, cultivate, and harvest all at the same time. Yes, we are in a time that the Holy Spirit is harvesting souls as the Word of God is sown.

Amos 9
13 Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that the plowman shall overtake the reaper, and the treader of grapes him that soweth seed; and the mountains shall drop sweet wine, and all the hills shall melt.

To be an effective witness we must issue the invitation by inviting others to Christ. We need to develop an attitude for witnessing and realize that God can save and that He will work through you. Also, an effective witness shows love toward everyone. We must witness with an attitude of understanding and not be confrontational. Let's have an attitude that Jesus is with us when we witness. Your witnessing life will not be any stronger than your own life in Christ.

We don't need to wait for the ideal circumstance because it may never come. Simply be bold and compassionate with your witness. Sometimes I create an environment for witness. What I mean by this is if I am in a disruptive area, I will ask the person to step over to an area where I can speak to them. Occasionally someone may want to argue with you. If someone is arguing loudly, just keep your pitch soft and volume levels the same. They will come down to your volume. We should stay in the spirit of communication as we witness and further develop our prayer life. There is no substitute for prayer.

The following are a few of the common sense things that a witness should remember as they are in the streets and sharing the witness of Christ.

DO

Ask them if they would like to receive Christ.

Use sidewalks as you walk door to door and be respectful of others' property.

Invite others to your church.

Obtain follow-up information for the pastor or minister of visitation.

Drive your vehicle as a witness in the streets and obey all laws.

Follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Have them pray the sinners' prayer aloud with you.

Use scriptures in your witness.

As you walk from door to door pray and ask God to be with you.

Prayer walk the area you will be witnessing in.

DON'T

Don't take risks.

Don't repeat anything told to you in confidence.

Don't debate religion.

Don't be confrontational with others.

Don't be disruptive.

Don't say words that can be misinterpreted.

Don't be judgmental.

Don't stay past your welcome.

Don't put tracts on wiper blades of vehicles or in door openings

Tuesday, October 20, 2009

WHY WITNESS

God has chosen us to be His witnesses. We are the only way the world will know who Jesus Christ is. Many times, as I share the gospel with people in the streets, I am amazed at how many people I speak to who have never heard the message of the Cross. Many of these individuals are of different ethnic origins. I have asked myself how could this be? How could anyone not have heard the message of the Cross? Other times we find people that have never thought about making a decision for Christ. I have noticed that two-thirds of those people we speak to say, by their own words, that they are lost and would go to hell if they died. This is the very reason we are in the streets sharing the gospel. We are there to reach that one lost soul. It is our privilege to communicate the message. Are you ready to accept Christ's challenge, and if you are not who will? Let's examine some scriptures below and see why we need to witness.
If we do not deliver the Good News, who will?

Romans 10

13 For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!
We are not to hide the witness in our heart.

Psalms 40

8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.9 I have preached righteousness in the great congregation: lo, I have not refrained my lips, O Lord, thou knowest.10 I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy loving kindness and thy truth from the great congregation.
We are asked to witness in the streets.

Psalms 144

12 That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace:13 That our garners may be full, affording all manner of store: that our sheep may bring forth thousands and ten thousands in our streets:
We are asked to go and witness to the world.

Mark 16

15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.

I remember one of many times that I was witnessing in an impoverished area of a city and went door to door. We often notice the homes and know there are children living there by seeing swing sets or bicycles in the yard. Other times we see pictures in the windows, or the many tennis shoes on the front porch. As we looked at one house we saw an electric meter on the front of the home and it was not moving. It looked like the home was empty or abandoned. We knocked on the door and someone told us to come in. It is never a good idea to open someone else's door and go inside. Therefore, we knocked again and a man opened the door. He invited us into his home. He was cooking fried chicken on the stove. His gas was turned on but he had no electricity. He seemed so happy that we were there to visit him.

We shared with him why we were there and he was surprised. He said he had just asked God how to be saved. He said the Lord had been dealing with him about his life. He knew he needed to be saved but did not know how. When I extended my hand to pray with him he wiped the chicken grease off his hands and took my hand. This was truly a divine appointment by God. We need to remember that we are often an answer to someone's prayer. I was excited to learn that he had just prayed and we knocked on his door. According to the world's standards, this man had nothing, but I believe he had everything. He had a hope that somehow he would find Jesus Christ. The Creator of the Universe loved this poor man so much that He sent someone to him to share the gospel and to hug him. I was so thrilled to be an answer to this man's prayer. Although this man only had a pan of chicken he was willing to share all he had with us. Are we ready to share all we have with others? I will always be touched by this moment.

Sadly, the next home we went to had no heat. The man that came to the door had the coldest hands I have ever touched. There are people who are hurting in this world and we must allow our love to extend past ourselves. God is wanting to share His love with this world and he has chosen you to carry His love.

I am amazed that by spending a few moments with someone and showing a genuine concern for them, many times my witness will result in someone giving their heart to the Lord. I remember one occasion that I was led to two people in a public park. As I approached them, they appeared very uncomfortable. I followed the leading of the Holy Spirit and shared the Gospel with them, listened to their comments, and answered their questions. I soon discovered that I was talking to two gang members from Chicago. During the witness it seemed hopeless, I continued to press on as I was led. When I issued the invitation for them to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior, they prayed with me and a wonderful change appeared on their face. They were moved by the Holy

Spirit and were looking down at the two New Testaments that I had just given them. One man looked up at me and said, "What do I do now with the rest of my life." I told them both to go back to the Chicago inner city with a new message and new mission. You see, they were radically saved and no longer drug pushers. One said that he knew what he was doing was not what he felt he was suppose to do, but it was all he knew. He said that now he knew God had a call on his life because he was always protected from danger and had an ability to captivate kids. He said he would share the witness of Jesus with the kids of his city. This was one of the most remarkable experiences that I have ever witnessed. Truly they both received a new heart.

We cannot wash our hands of a lost, sick world. We want to allow the Word to create a desire in our hearts to reach the lost. The most important thing is that we know the Lord and live our life for the Glory of God. God is more interested in who you are than what you do for Him. Your witnessing must be motivated from deep within and should be an overflow of your life in Him. God wants to enlarge our hearts so He can enlarge Himself in us.

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