WHY WE STAY SILENT
You know the gospel, but does your neighbor? I’ve sat through plenty of sermons, small groups, and ministry meetings where the idea of evangelism gets tossed around like it’s assumed. But if we’re honest, many of us haven’t spoken the name of Jesus in a personal conversation with an unbeliever in months, maybe even years.
In my early twenties, a co-worker opened up about his divorce. She was in a place of hurting, and I had a clear chance to talk about Christ, but I said nothing. Not because I didn’t care, but because I hesitated. I’ve thought about that moment for years. Not because I said something wrong, but because I said nothing at all.
Our silence is not always apathy. Sometimes it’s fear, doubt, or distraction. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of thinking: They don’t want to hear this. But Jesus didn’t say, When it feels natural, talk about me. He said, “Go and make disciples” (Matthew 28:19). Jesus was not suggesting that we make disciples; he was giving us the charge to “go” make disciples. That’s a command.
And He said, “I am the way… no one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6). If we believe that, then someone’s eternity may hinge on our willingness to speak. Evangelism isn’t for experts. It’s for those who are obedient and willing, even when we don’t have all the answers.
Look at what the Bible says about our part in 1 Peter 3:15, “Always be prepared to give an answer” (1 Peter 3:15). That’s for every believer. That is, you and me. Jesus himself gives us the call to action when he states in Acts 1:8 that the Spirit gives power to witness. You’re not doing this alone.
WHAT GOD EXPECTS FROM US
Paul affirms this when he writes in 2 Corinthians 5:20 that we, believers, are called to be ambassadors, and through us, God makes His appeal. God is calling us to partner with him. The very one who created the universe is calling us to be His partner, not because he needs us, but because He desires that we participate in something important to Him.
That thought alone should stir us to action. Like Paul’s prayer in Colossians 4:3, we should be asking that God would open doors for us to share the good news of salvation in Christ. Paul didn’t wait for convenience; he asked and stepped through. So, what’s stopping us?
Have you named it? Fear of rejection? Doubt that you’ll say it right? A schedule that’s too full? A past that makes you feel unqualified? Here’s what I’ve learned: unspoken barriers quietly control us. But once we name them, we can face them.
That’s precisely why we’re hosting a four-hour evangelism training at Mill City Christian Church on Saturday, June 29, at 12 noon.
We’re going to face our fears and doubts and learn how to share the gospel clearly, practice speaking it out loud, and encourage each other to take real steps forward. Whether you’ve never shared your faith or you need clarity and courage, this is where we begin, together.
HOW TO PREPARE TO SHARE
Regardless of whether you attend or not, the work starts now. If we’re going to speak with confidence, we have to know what we’re saying. That means getting clear on the message itself.
First, we need to be clear on the message. Romans 6:23 is enough. “The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” That verse walks through the whole gospel, introducing sin, consequence, grace, and Jesus. If you can remember three words: wages, gift, and Jesus, you can start a conversation.
Then, you can tell your own story in under two minutes. What was life like before Christ? How did He meet you? What’s changed? Keep it simple and keep it honest.
Next, pray for two people by name. Keep those names somewhere you can easily see them. Pray that God opens a door. Pray for courage. Pray until it happens. Colossians 4:3 isn’t just Paul’s strategy; it can be ours, too. Make it a daily habit to “pray… that God may open a door.”
Finally, put yourself where people are. You can’t witness to people you never see. Say yes to the town event. Sit at the café a little longer. Invite someone over. Volunteer where help is needed. You don’t need a perfect transition. You just need proximity, presence, and patience.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN WE SPEAK
I still recall that a couple of years ago, one woman in our church, who is still with us, invited a co-worker to read the Bible. She didn’t know how it would go, so she was surprised when he friend said yes. It was communicated to me that at that moment, she didn’t start with boldness, but she did start with a willingness.
Do you know what happens when we speak to share the gospel? You grow. Your Bible reading gains urgency. Your prayer life deepens. You start paying attention again.
Imagine now that we are all doing this. Our church will come further alive. New believers bring new questions. They stir stagnant waters. Your kids watch. And they learn that faith speaks. But, most of all, God is honored, not by perfect delivery, but by simple obedience.
You don’t need a platform. You don’t need a degree. You just need a mouth. A message. And the Spirit of God. Start with one name. Say one prayer. Speak one sentence. Then, watch what God does.
If you’re ready to grow in courage and clarity, join us on June 29 at 12 noon. Let’s not stay silent. Let’s speak and trust God to use it.
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