MAIN POINT

Everyone who has put his or her faith in Jesus Christ has a testimony that someone needs to hear. (JOHN 4:39-42)

INTRODUCTION

• We all love stories. What is your favorite story of all time (book, movie, show, play)? Why?
• How does our love for stories relate to sharing the good news of Jesus?

In this session, we’re moving from why, when, and where we should share the gospel to how we go about sharing the gospel. This is the part that makes most Christians feel nervous about evangelism. Many believers agree with the principle that they should share the gospel. They just don’t know how to practice it. One of the best ways to share your faith is to engage a person through story. Your personal story, or testimony, is a powerful way to share the gospel. The word testimony may feel intimidating, but it’s simply a matter of you telling someone about your life, most notably about how Jesus changed your story forever.

UNDERSTANDING

Watch Session 3: The Power of your Personal Story by Greg Laurie at Lifeway Small Group (22 minutes) or Harvest Online Courses

Answer the following questions in the quiz.

READ JOHN 4:39-42.

1. How was this woman’s story a bridge to Jesus?
2. What does this reveal about the power of someone’s personal story of meeting Jesus?

After her conversation with Jesus, the Samaritan woman believed in Him and immediately went out and began to tell others. Surely, many knew her story, and they could see the radical transformation that had taken place in her life after her encounter with Jesus Christ. This woman didn’t have any training, formula, or perfect theology. Yet she couldn’t wait to tell someone—everyone in earshot—the good news Jesus shared with her. Look at how people responded to her simple testimony. Jesus built a bridge to the woman. The woman heard and believed. Then she built a bridge for her entire town to meet Jesus. Her personal story was powerful, as is everyone’s.

DISCUSS

• How do you relate to the story of the woman at the well?
• What does her story teach us about Jesus?

Answer the following questions in the quiz.

Greg gave four tips for sharing your testimony.

1. Don’t glorify or exaggerate your past.
2. Don’t boast about what you gave up for God, but about what He gave up for you.
3. Speak in a language people can understand.
4. Be fool enough to grab it.

• Which of the above are you most likely to have trouble, and why?
• How did you come to know Jesus, and how has He changed your life?
• Telling your story is a powerful bridge for the gospel message. What in your life can be a unique connecting point to another person with similar experiences? How can that part of your story point to the gospel?

The main thing to do is simply tell your story. Someone needs to hear it. Every testimony has bad news and good news. The turning point in your life is all about Jesus.

APPLICATION

Answer the following questions in the quiz.

1. What were some significant moments (high and low) in your life?
2. When did you first encounter the gospel? Who or what experience did God use to draw you into relationship with Him?
3. What has been your experience since coming to faith in Jesus? Best part? Hardest part?