PASS IT ON - Win Others for Jesus

 

PASS IT ON - Win Others for Jesus

INTRODUCTION:

Breaking news are not always pleasant and good news. We all like to receive good news that would make our day. I don’t like sharing or delivering bad news. Good news is only meaningful and good when it is passed on and delivered to the intended receiver – that makes a big difference. The Gospel is good news! It would only make the intended impact when we deliver and pass it on to the sin-laden and sick souls. If you are saved, you have a great a news, publish it! Pass it on!

O Zion Haste

1 O Zion, haste, thy mission high fulfilling,
to tell to all the world that God is Light;
that He who made all nations is not willing
one soul should perish, lost in shades of night.

Refrain:
Publish glad tidings, tidings of peace;
tidings of Jesus, redemption, and release. 

2 Behold, how many thousands still are lying,
bound in the darksome prison-house of sin,
with none to tell them of the Savior’s dying,
or of the life He died for them to win. [Refrain] 

3 Proclaim to ev'ry people, tongue, and nation
that God, in whom they live and move, is love;
tell how He stooped to save His lost creation,
and died on earth that we might live above. [Refrain] 

4 Give of thy sons to bear the message glorious;
give of thy wealth to speed them on their way;
pour out thy soul for them in prayer victorious;
O Zion, haste to bring the brighter day. [Refrain]

QUESTIONS:

1. In today’s lesson we are studying three persons as examples for witnessing. Identify the person which best fits each statement.

Having love and concern for the person’s enemies.

Having found the Messiah, he did not let the day pass until he had brought his brother to Christ.

This person brought one of his best friends to the Messiah.

QUOTE/APPLICATIONS:

1. Do you ever stop, my friend, to think,

The while this world you’re passing thro’

Someone may be saved from ruin’s brink,

By just a little help from you?

Refrain

Just a little help from you,

Just a little help from you;

Wondrous things the Lord may do,

By just a little help from you.

2. Just a little deed of kindness now,

It may the faith of one restore,

Who beneath some load of grief doth bow,

Is almost ready to give o’er.

3. Just a little word of Jesus’ love,

Some precious soul may help decide

To forsake the wrong and look above,

And let the Lord his footsteps guide.

4. Let us do our part, ere day is done,

And to our calling faithful be;

For the world to Christ must now be won,

By help of you, by help of me.

KEY POINTS:

A sure word of prophecy (The Gospel message is real and powerful)

Eyewitness experience

1John 1:1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;

Needs no pushing

Live the life (Gospel lifestyle)

Charity begins from “Home” (your constituency)

At the right place (where you are)

From issue of the moment

Circumstances of life are opportunity for Gospel contact

You are just a messenger: Do your work

Don’t reject it for them (Present it, no matter what)

Don’t hinder the message (Present it to all – those who agree or do not agree with you)

Refusal to spread the gospel due to interpersonal differences should be avoided

Avoid contempt of familiarity (The message is ever new and people need God)

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- Having love and concern for the person's enemies: 

Example: Stephen (Acts 7:60) 

"And he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, Lord, lay not this sin to their charge. And when he had said this, he fell asleep." 

This shows Stephen's love and concern for those who were persecuting him, reflecting Christ's command to love our enemies (Matthew 5:44).

- Having found the Messiah, he did not let the day pass until he had brought his brother to Christ: 

  - Example: Andrew (John 1:41-42) 

     "He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus." 

     Andrew’s urgency to bring his brother to Christ exemplifies the joy and excitement of discovering the Messiah and wanting to share that with loved ones.

- This person brought one of his best friends to the Messiah: 

  - Example: Philip (John 1:45-46) 

     "Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph. And Nathanael said unto him, Can there any good thing come out of Nazareth? Philip saith unto him, Come and see." 

     Philip’s approach of inviting Nathanael to "come and see" demonstrates the importance of leading friends to Christ through invitation and relationship.

 

2. Identify the person to whom Christ ministered, who in turn spread the Good News throughout a whole city and saw many of the people believe on Him. See John 4. Note two or three reasons why this person was so successful in getting the people to come, see, and hear Jesus.

KEY POINTS:

Ministering to the unusual and indifferent

Dealing with the difficult process of evangelism

Initial refusal or hindrance is an opportunity for a tremendous outcome

Breaking the barrier for bumper harvest (identify that single door and open it)

A world of “make believe” (many are living fake lives but suffering in silence)

Dealing with prejudice barriers (gender, religion, culture, class, race, …)

(set the status quo aside and spread the news)

The power of one-on-one evangelism approach

One woman evangelized the whole town (Seed evangelism)

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- Person who spread the Good News throughout a whole city: 

  - Example: The Samaritan Woman (John 4:29, 39) 

     "Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did: is not this the Christ?"

(John 4:29) 

     "And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did." (John 4:39)

 Reasons for Her Success in Getting the People to Come, See, and Hear Jesus:

Personal Testimony: 

  - The Samaritan woman shared her personal encounter with Jesus, which was powerful and compelling. Her testimony sparked curiosity among the townspeople. 

   "He told me all things that ever I did." (John 4:29) 

   Personal experiences of Christ’s transformative power can motivate others to seek Him.

Immediate Action: 

  - After her conversation with Jesus, she immediately went to the city to share the news, displaying urgency and enthusiasm in her mission. 

   "Then the woman left her waterpot, and went her way into the city, and saith to the men..." (John 4:28) 

   Taking swift action to share the Good News can inspire others to respond quickly.

Relatable Outreach: 

  - As a woman from Samaria, her background and social status made her relatable to the townspeople. She broke cultural barriers by speaking openly about her experience and inviting them to engage with Jesus. 

   This was significant given the cultural animosities between Jews and Samaritans (John 4:9). 

   Being authentic and vulnerable can bridge gaps and make our outreach more effective.

 

3. What do you think was most influential in achieving the startling multiplication of members in the Early Church? See Acts 4:31; 8:4. In what way are all Christians to be “preachers of righteousness”? See Mark 16:15.

KEY POINTS:

Power for Service

Prayer is the key (keeps the heart in tune)

Results of prayer – Revival

Revival ignites evangelism (awakening)

Spiritual work (we need to be filled with the spirit)

Zeal (Driving force)

The message – Truth that sets free (compelling)

“Go ye” (Commission)

God’s disperse mechanism (Push factors, if we refuse to go)

Take it wherever you go (Feet shod with the gospel message)

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Power of Prayer: 

  - The Early Church was devoted to prayer, which facilitated the movement of the Holy Spirit and empowered their witness. 

   "And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness." (Acts 4:31) 

   Prioritizing prayer in the life of the church can lead to divine empowerment and growth.

Boldness in Preaching the Gospel: 

  - The disciples preached the message of Christ fearlessly, which attracted many to the faith. 

   "Therefore they that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word." (Acts 8:4) 

   Courageous and consistent sharing of the Gospel can lead to significant growth in the Church.

Persecution Leading to Evangelism: 

  - Persecution, while challenging, prompted believers to spread the Gospel beyond their immediate surroundings, fulfilling the Great Commission. 

   The scattering of believers due to persecution led to new opportunities for evangelism (Acts 8:1). 

   Sometimes challenges can be used by God to further His mission through innovative outreach.

 Role of All Christians as "Preachers of Righteousness":

Great Commission: 

  - Every Christian is called to share the Gospel and witness to others about Christ. This mandate emphasizes the responsibility to proclaim righteousness. 

   "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." (Mark 16:15) 

   Each believer should take ownership of spreading the Good News, recognizing that the mission field is everywhere.

Living as Examples of Righteousness: 

  - Christians are to live in a way that reflects Christ’s righteousness, serving as testimonies of His transformative work in their lives. 

   "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid." (Matthew 5:14) 

   By embodying Christ-like qualities, believers naturally preach righteousness through their actions and lifestyle.

Equipping for Ministry: 

  - We are equipped when we are filled with the Holy Spirit for the work of ministry and have unique roles in God’s plan. 

   "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me..." (Acts 1:8) 

   The empowerment of the Holy Spirit in us gives active participation in spreading the Gospel.

 

4. When you think about speaking of Christ, how do you react? Circle one of the sentences given below or write one of your own.

I find it difficult to speak of such a personal matter.

I do not speak about Christ unless someone asks me.

I find it easy to talk to friends about Christ, but not to people I don’t know.

I find it easy to talk to strangers about Christ, but not to close friends.

I often find myself talking to people about Christ, and I am thrilled when I have that privilege.

KEY POINTS:

Gospel? – Good news

You can’t give what you don’t have

After you got saved, how did you feel about telling others/spreading the news?

How do you feel now?

Necessity (is placed on us)

Priority (should be our approach)

Why: Do you know the why? (God’s instruction, fellow-labourer)

What: The news, your experience, sound doctrine

When: As at when needed

Where: Start where you are

Who: Your daily acquaintances

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Recognizing Personal Struggles with Speaking of Christ: 

  - If you find it difficult to speak of such a personal matter: 

"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth..." (Romans 1:16) 

 We need to pray for boldness and the Holy Spirit to overcome our fears of sharing our faith.

Speaking About Christ Only When Asked: 

- If you do not speak about Christ unless someone asks you: 

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you..." (1 Peter 3:15) 

While it's important to answer questions, we should proactively share the Gospel as part of our witness.

Easier to Talk to Friends Than Strangers: 

  - If you find it easy to talk to friends about Christ, but not to people you don’t know: 

     "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations..." (Matthew 28:19) 

     We are called to share the Gospel with everyone, regardless of our level of comfort, and to recognize that every interaction can be an opportunity.

Easier to Talk to Strangers Than Close Friends: 

  - If you find it easy to talk to strangers about Christ, but not to close friends: 

     "A prophet is not without honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and in his own house." (Mark 6:4) 

     Remember that familiarity may breed contempt; however, we can pray for wisdom and genuine connections when sharing with those we know well.

Thrilled When Talking About Christ: 

- If you often talk to people about Christ and are thrilled by that privilege: 

     "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." (Mark 16:15) 

Celebrate these opportunities and seek to be intentional in finding more chances to share the joy of Christ with others.

 

5. In your opinion, how would the Apostle Peter have answered question 4 above? Why? See Acts 4:20.

QUOTE/APPLICATION:

Refrain:
Ready to go, ready to stay,
Ready my place to fill;
Ready for service lowly or great,
Ready to do His will.

3 Ready to speak, ready to think,
Ready with heart and mind;
Ready to stand where He sees fit,
Ready His will to find. [Refrain]

4 Ready to speak, ready to warn,
Ready o’er souls to yearn;
Ready in life or ready in death,
Ready for His return. [Refrain]

KEY POINTS:

Spiritual relationship

It begins with you (keep on the firing line)

You are an investment (God’s expectation is high. So, do his rewards/blessings)

Are you still connected?

Spreading the news should be natural/impulsive (part of you/your vocation)

How do you measure up?

If your fire gone down, start from yourself (stir up the gift/spirit in you)

1 Corinthians 9:16 For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!

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Compelled to Speak of Christ: 

  - Peter's Likely Response: "I often find myself talking to people about Christ, and I am thrilled when I have that privilege." 

     "For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard." (Acts 4:20) 

     Peter felt a strong compulsion to share his experiences with Christ, emphasizing that witnessing is a natural expression of one’s faith.

Boldness in Proclamation: 

  - Reason for Peter’s Response: After witnessing Christ's life, death, and resurrection, Peter was empowered by the Holy Spirit to boldly proclaim the Gospel. 

     "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4) 

     The filling of the Holy Spirit emboldens believers to speak up and share the message of Christ regardless of the audience or circumstances.

Responding to Opposition: 

  - Peter's Perspective on Challenges: Despite facing persecution and opposition, Peter remained unwavering in his commitment to share the Gospel. 

     "And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word." (Acts 4:29) 

     In the face of potential challenges or threats, believers are encouraged to pray for boldness and continue sharing their faith without fear.

Personal Witness to Christ's Work: 

  - His Motivation to Share: Peter had a personal and transformative encounter with Jesus, which motivated him to witness to others. 

     "Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God." (Matthew 16:16) 

     Personal experiences with Christ can ignite a passion for evangelism, driving believers to share the Good News enthusiastically.

 

6. Why is it so very important to witness for Jesus and win others to Him? See 2 Corinthians 5:20. Why is the Gospel vital to every person we meet from the standpoint of eternity? See Romans 6:23.

KEY POINTS:

Mercy and grace (But for God’s grace and mercy, you are that sinner…)

Saved to serve

Delivered to show others the way out

Salvation is free but with a high price – Jesus’ blood

No good alternative to righteous living

We are God’s representatives/Ambassadors

Satan is working hard – Employing human, technology, world system…

Many need help (Just a little help from you)

Eternity is at stake (No alternative to heaven)

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Ambassadors for Christ: 

   As believers, we are called to act as representatives or ambassadors of Christ in this world. 

     "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God." (2 Corinthians 5:20) 

     Recognizing our role as ambassadors inspires us to actively share the message of reconciliation with others, demonstrating the urgency and necessity of evangelism.

Call to Action: 

  - Reason for Importance: Witnessing is not just a suggestion; it's a command from Christ to spread His message to others. 

     "And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." (Mark 16:15) 

     Understanding our duty to fulfill the Great Commission compels us to engage in conversations about faith actively.

Impact on Others' Lives: 

  - Significance: Sharing the Gospel can lead to transformation and new life in others, which is a direct reflection of God's love. 

     "There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." (Luke 15:10) 

     Each person we witness to has the potential to experience life-changing faith, emphasizing the importance of our witness.

 Vitality of the Gospel to Every Person from an Eternal Standpoint:

Eternal Consequences of Sin: 

  - Understanding the Stakes: The Gospel addresses the reality of sin and its dire consequences—eternal separation from God. 

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

     Recognizing that everyone faces the consequences of sin underscores the urgent need for sharing the Gospel as the solution to eternal separation.

Gift of Salvation: 

  - Hope Offered: Through Jesus, every person can receive the gift of eternal life, which is crucial for their future. 

     The Gospel provides the only way to salvation prompts us to share it, knowing it holds the key to eternal hope and life.

Universal Necessity: 

  - Gospel for All: Every individual we meet needs to hear the message of salvation, regardless of their background or beliefs. 

     "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved." (Romans 10:13) 

     This universal invitation reinforces our responsibility to share the Gospel with everyone we encounter.

 

7. Why is the Gospel important right here and now to every person we meet in the daily affairs of life? See 1 John 1:9 and Romans 8:1.

KEY POINTS:

Divine appointment – don’t miss it

It may be the person’s last chance

The Gospel is an identity transformer (death to life, darkness to light, guilt to glory)

The Gospel is a spiritual lifestyle (you don’t have a life without spiritual life)

The Gospel offers life’s manual

The Gospel guides and manages

The Gospel is the greatest achievement

The Gospel is the light of life

The Gospel is the best investment for the future

The Gospel offers eternity in heaven

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Assurance of Forgiveness: 

   The Gospel provides a clear assurance of forgiveness for those who confess their sins, offering hope in our daily struggles. 

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

     This assurance encourages individuals to seek reconciliation and healing in their relationship with God, impacting their daily choices and actions.

Guidance Through Life’s Challenges: 

  - Navigating Daily Struggles: The Gospel provides not only salvation but also practical wisdom and guidance for facing daily trials and temptations. 

     "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105) 

     Trusting in the principles taught through the Gospel guides individuals in decision-making and helps them navigate life's complexities with a godly perspective.

Hope and Purpose: 

  - Meaning in Daily Living: The Gospel brings hope and purpose to life

     "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end." (Jeremiah 29:11) 

     Understanding your purpose through the Gospel encourages individuals to live with intention and to seek opportunities to reflect Christ’s love in their everyday interactions.

 

8. What reward do those reap who witness for Christ? See Revelation 12:11 and Daniel 12:3. What happens to those who fail in this endeavor? See Mark 8:38.

KEY POINTS:

Witnessing: Keeps, empowered, secures, opened doors…

You are the one to profit (if you do it)

Beautiful life

Greatest satisfaction

Joy unspeakable

Current and future blessings, as at when needed

Eternal rewards

Those who refused:

They missed out on everything, both here and eternity

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 Rewards for Those Who Witness for Christ:

Victory Over Adversity: 

     "And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death." (Revelation 12:11) 

We can find encouragement in knowing that our faithful witness contributes to spiritual and physical victories.

Honor and Recognition: 

  - Eternal Glory: Those who lead others to righteousness will shine brightly in eternity, receiving honor in God's kingdom. 

     "And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever." (Daniel 12:3) 

     The promise of eternal reward motivates us to engage in evangelism, knowing our efforts will be recognized and cherished by God.

 Consequences for Failing to Witness: Missed all the joy and blessings

Those who refused to spread the news and are ashamed to share Christ in their will face repercussions, particularly in their relationship with Him at His return. 

     "Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my words in this adulterous and sinful generation; of him also shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory of his Father with the holy angels." (Mark 8:38) 

     This warns believers about the importance of openly living out and sharing their faith, stressing that neglecting this duty can lead to a tarnished reputation in the eyes of Christ.

CONCLUSION:

We have a charge to keep. Will you be enlisted and be counted?

 

A CHARGE TO KEEP

1 A charge to keep I have,
a God to glorify,
a never-dying soul to save,
and fit it for the sky. 

2 To serve the present age,
my calling to fulfill,
O may it all my pow'rs engage
to do my Master's will! 

3 Arm me with watchful care
as in Thy sight to live,
and now Thy servant, Lord, prepare
a strict account to give! 

4 Help me to watch and pray,
and still on Thee rely,
O let me not my trust betray,
but press to realms on high.