Influencing Others for Jesus

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Foundational Principle:

As followers of Jesus, we have the responsibility to positively influence those around us for God.

Scripture to Begin:

2 Corinthians 5:19-21

19 that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. 20 Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. 21 For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

Learning

In today’s culture, being an influencer is a highly sought after status. But you don’t need a massive social media following to have significant impact on those around you. As people who follow Jesus we have the awesome opportunity to point others to Christ wherever we are. Whether it’s our spouses, children, co-workers, neighbors, or people at church, every day we can impact our community with the gospel.

According to Merriam-Webster, a “guide” is someone who “directs or has an influence on the course of action of (someone or something)”. Guides show others the way. How do we become someone who guides others to Jesus? It starts by being intentional with those God has already placed in our path for “such a time as this”.

Identify people you come in contact with on a regular basis:

• Who do you know in your neighborhood?

• Are there people at your workplace?

• Is your child involved in extracurricular activities? Do you know the families there?

• What hobbies do you have that connect you with others?

Write down a few people you come in contact with during these times and ask yourself:

• What do I know about these people?

• Where has their story intersected with mine?

• What questions could I ask to get to know them better?

• How can I be a blessing to them today?

Commit to praying for the people on your list:

• Ask for revelation (Ephesians 1:17-19).

• Ask for an open door for spiritual conversations (Colossians 4:2-4).

• Ask that God turn their eyes from worthless things (Psalm 119:34-37).

• Ask God to send others to help (Matthew 9:38).

Reflection

Why do you think it’s difficult to build relationships with those who don’t go to church? What worries do you have about making friends with families who aren’t religious?
What stops you from being intentional with people who don’t believe in Jesus?

Applying What We Learn

Work through the questions above. Are there specific people or families in your community that have shown spiritual interest? If so, add them to your Guide Map and begin to pray for them regularly. What is one way you can be a trusted friend to one of those people today?

GUIDE MAP

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