As Christians redeemed by Jesus, we get to live with the joy of the victory that Jesus has already won for us. We also live under the Great Commission—the instructions that Jesus spoke to His disciples in Matthew 28 to “make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (vv. 19–20). Although Jesus’ words in the Great Commission were clear, we might not know how to approach conversations about Jesus with friends and family. But we know that God uses us as instruments to share the Gospel with those around us and that the Holy Spirit works faith in us and others. Here are some books that you can use as tools to help build up the confidence to speak clearly, share the joy of salvation in daily life, and carry out our calling to make disciples.
1. Speaking Boldly: Sharing God’s Word Every Day by Edward O. Grimenstein
Sharing the Good News in Daily Life
It can be easy to overthink or overcomplicate the idea of sharing the Gospel. Speaking Boldly: Sharing God’s Word Every Day encourages us to look at the small moments we share with friends, family, and coworkers as opportunities to let the truth of the Gospel shine through us. Through nine chapters, Rev. Dr. Edward O. Grimenstein breaks down our fears about speaking about the Good News, providing realistic examples of how we share our faith in vocations that we didn’t expect when we boldly allow the truths of the Bible to permeate our worldview.
2. The Reason I Believe: The Basics of Christian Apologetics by Allen Quist
Defense of the Faith
Although we may be sharing our faith in daily moments, sometimes we can be confronted with questions or pushback. 1 Peter 3:15 instructs us to honor Christ, “always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you.” We should carry this out “with gentleness and respect.” The Reason I Believe: The Basics of Christian Apologetics provides a basic fact-based defense of Christianity. The evidence Allen Quist presents in this book shows how Christianity requires faith, but it is not blind or thoughtless.
3. A Biblical Response Series
Controversial Modern Topics
When confronted with controversial topics, the A Biblical Response booklets can help prepare you with answers or be used as tools to share a scriptural worldview with those struggling to reconcile their ideas about the world with the messages they may be hearing about God’s Word. These easy-to-read summaries guide Christians to look at the Word and trust in the Holy Spirit when dealing with and discussing difficult cultural issues.
4. The Messiah: Revealing Jesus in the Old Testament
Reading and Sharing the Whole Bible
Understanding the Bible as a whole can be an important aspect of sharing our faith. We do not pick and choose certain parts of Scripture to add to our faith. Rather, we trust in all of the inspired Word of God. The Messiah: Revealing Jesus in the Old Testament can help connect the dots for a new or curious believer who might be willing to engage in a Bible study with you. Over eight sessions, daily readings, questions, and discussion prompts, the study shows God’s constant love and truth from creation to today.
5. The Lutheran Study Bible
The Power of the Word of God
Although it is good to be prepared to speak boldly, we should never underestimate the power of the Word of God. It is always efficacious. In Isaiah 55:11, God declares that His Word “shall not return ... empty,” but that it will accomplish His will. The power of the Holy Spirit works in us and in those around us as we speak the Gospel, share Scripture, and shine daily with the hope that lives within us.
Scripture: ESV®.
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