Making A Personal Difference

 “...God loves you, and we know he has chosen you, because the Good News we brought to you came not only with words, but with power, with the Holy Spirit, and with sure knowledge that it is true. Also you know how we lived when we were with you in order to help you.” 
                                                                                                            1 Thessalonians 1:4,5 CEV

    A fire consumes.  A fire that does not spread will soon die out.  In is book, “The Purpose Driven Life”, Rick Warren wrote that your life’s message will have four parts to it: 1) your testimony, 2) your life lessons, 3) your Godly passions, 4) the Good News.  Friendship evangelism is a relational association- how you interact with others.  Therefore, we must ignite others to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Read: 1 Thessalonians 2:1-13

According to Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus told us to go and that He would go with us.  Matthew 9:10-13 Jesus gave us an example.

Luke 15:1,2 He was criticized by the Pharisees;  yet in Luke 19:1-10 Zacchaeus came to see and receive the Gospel message

*  most people wont come to church

*  it is an inconvenience to their routine

*  therefore evangelism through relationships is essential

vs1-2  Paul had an urgency to presenting the Gospel even though there was very strong opposition- he did not hesitate    Acts 4:29-31;   Philippians 1:29,30

v7-9  It is important to build people relationships by being kind, gentle and caring toward them :  Proverbs 18:24

vs10-12  We are to live the life of Christ before other people.

*Neighbors and coworkers are watching to see if we really do believe what we are saying to them about the Good News.

*Paul knew that his life had to correspond with his teaching.  Philippians 1:27

*God doesn’t expect any more from us either.  Colossians 1:10,11

   There is a reward in love and friendship.  People are looking for answers to their issues.