"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit," Matthew 28:19
At one point early in my working career, I worked in retail for about ten years. I sold cameras, electronics, men's clothing, housewares, and shoes. I remember a few things from that experience; you can't be afraid to speak to people, you need to know what you're selling, and you need to believe in what you're selling. If you can't answer people's questions and aren't enthusiastic about the product, you won't be very successful.
As Jesus was training his disciples, he encouraged them to be bold in speaking their message. He sent them out in pairs as a first training exercise while he was still with them so that they might have the experience of evangelism. He spent three years with them, giving them the information they required. In using Jesus’ teachings, their observations, and their knowledge of the Torah, they preached the Good News. Before he left them, he promised them the Holy Spirit, which they received on Pentecost. Jesus prepared them with knowledge of the importance of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, so they might later explain it to others. We have evidence of the disciple’s boldness in sharing this message in the whole of the New Testament.
We also are called to make disciples. The Holy Spirit encourages us to share our faith with others. In the things we say and the actions we take, we serve as witnesses to the world who we are as followers of Jesus. When asked questions about our belief, we can be ready with answers found in God's Word in the Holy Bible -- our product manual, and our experiences of what God has done for us. Folks aren't looking for a theological discussion of who God is, but what he can do to transform their lives.
God, we thank you for your Son, who gave us Salvation and the Holy Spirit that dwells with us as our guide. We pray today for boldness to share what you've done for us with others. When asked, please give us the words to say. We pray this In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost. Amen.
To whom can I be a disciple today?
Blessings!
Pastor Tim
