(The following is the July 8 devotional from my Next Step Devotions book. Before reading it, I suggest you read 1 Corinthians 2 and pay close attention to verses 1-5.)
Many Christians feel inadequate when sharing the gospel. We may be introverted or shy, think we know too little about the Bible to answer questions, lack formal training in doctrine or speech, or fear others’ reactions. These may explain our hesitancy, but they are not valid excuses for failing to obey the Great Commission Christ gave us.
Compared to many, Paul enjoyed advantages due to his background, status, education, and opportunities. But when it came to sharing the gospel, he did not focus on these advantages. Instead, he tells the Corinthians, “When I came to you, brothers and sisters, announcing the mystery of God to you, I did not come with brilliance of speech or wisdom. I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified. I came to you in weakness, in fear, and in much trembling. My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not be based on human wisdom but on God’s power” (vv. 1-5).
How encouraging that is for us. Paul considered himself as having no brilliant speech or wisdom, focused on Christ, weak, fearful, trembling, and reliant on God’s Spirit to act and demonstrate his presence. This is no list of remarkable qualifications available only to apostles, pastors, and the privileged. This describes a humble, ordinary person saved by Christ and eager to tell others about Jesus.
Are you fearful, weak, trembling, or unsure of what to say when sharing the gospel? Join the crowd. You’re in great company with countless others through the ages. Christ uses our imperfect efforts, his perfect Word, and his Spirit’s power to accomplish his purposes.
When Christ told us to make disciples of all the nations, he already factored in our weaknesses.
Next Step:
What fears or perceived inabilities keep you from sharing the gospel? How does Paul’s description of himself encourage you to witness?
