By Mike Friesz
The world is desperately in need of the light of the Gospel. Social justice alone will not work. Changes brought about by this political party or that one will not be lasting. Political correctness quickly turns against us. What the world needs is the light of the gospel.
We make sharing Jesus incredibly difficult. We believe we need a full scriptural exegesis. We expect that a theological discussion would be required to shine the light. There is a better way.
Can we tell our story while presenting the gospel? Can we confront the needs of our audience while expressing love? Paul demonstrated that we can do those things as he faced his trials. Peter challenged us:
We must give an account for the hope within us. The challenge is to do so with gentleness and respect. The balancing act of speaking the truth in love will enable us to witness effectively. Giving both grace and truth is required. All can be accomplished with your story.
Paul has been rescued from certain death at the hands of the Jewish mob. The mob would certainly have ripped Paul apart except for the quick actions of the Roman guards. Literally carrying Paul to protect him from the crowd, they are on the way into the Roman fortress. Paul asks to address the crowd, looking directly into their faces.
The commander grants Paul’s request. He doubtless hopes that Paul’s words would settle the vicious crowd. Amazingly, Paul’s presence and his ability to speak to the crowd in Aramaic was able to calm the crowd long enough to give a speech.
Paul’s words were not a Scriptural exhortation but a simple recitation of his story. He does this often through this section of Acts. The same three elements cross over every one of Paul’s uses of story.
Paul’s story, and yours, includes three parts.
Before coming to Jesus
Paul tells the story of his ethnicity and religion. He connects with the Jewish faith and tells them of his training at the feet of Gamaliel. The influence of this well-known and respected teacher would have impressed the crowd and won Paul positive attention.
Paul also assuaged the Romans by talking about his Roman citizenship. Thus, in a few sentences Paul can connect powerfully with various people in his audience.
Our stories must also begin with the lives we lived before meeting Christ. We may not have persecuted the church or have a story leading us from the mob to the Messiah. We may not be able to tell of moving from drugs to disciples. Yet, we have a story.
Do not be afraid to tell your story. You have a powerful experience that can help others along their way.
Encountering Jesus
Paul next shares how he came to a personal relationship with the Savior. He tells about his Damascus Road experience of seeing light and hearing the voice of the Savior.
Every person’s testimony of meeting Christ is important, even if you did not see blinding light. What is important is Christ, not what happened to you. You are the authority on your salvation. Only you can tell that story well. How did you meet Him? Tell that story.
All a witness can do is tell their story. What experience did you have with Jesus? Tell that story. Tell it faithfully and consistently.
Life in Christ
Paul lays in the dust, blinded. Blinded, confused, shocked, scared — Paul’s mind must have been reeling as he lay in the dust. He had responded with a humble question, “What shall I do, Lord?
God sent Ananias to Paul. He greeted Paul and guided him to commit his life to the Lord who met him on the street. Thank God for the commitment of Ananias. Paul received his sight and his mission.
Three things stand out in this part of Paul’s story. First, Paul brought the gospel down to three great necessities. Our testimonies must tell the story of our life in Christ. Your story is your story but include how God has revealed Himself to you and led you.
Second, we must not be afraid to ask for a decision. While telling his story Paul asked those listening to respond to the Gospel. Your story is not a sermon but must allow for people to respond.
Finally, we must not discount the work of God in bringing conviction. The Holy Spirit worked on Paul, leading him to salvation. He will work through Paul to speak to this audience. He will also work through you as you tell your story.
Do you have a story? Can you tell of the time when Jesus came to you, and you accepted His invitation to a personal relationship? If you cannot tell that story you can respond to Him now.
Your prayer from a sincere heart could sound like this one:
Dear Jesus, I confess that I have continually sinned against you. I have broken your laws and cannot fix myself. I believe that you saw my hopeless situation and sent your Son Jesus to be a sacrifice for me. Jesus, I believe that you died for me and rose from the dead. You took my sin upon you. I ask you to come into my life now, Jesus. I surrender myself to you and ask you to save me. Thank you, Jesus, for transforming my story and removing the guilt of my sin. Lead me now to follow you.
If you have a story, I will remind you that your story is immensely powerful. No one else can tell your story. Yours is unique. No one else can tell it. And your story is enduring. It will always be one of your most powerful tools.
Will you tell your story today? If you were to open your thickest Bible and preach a message people may or may not listen. If you tell them your story, people will listen, and the Spirit will work.
Mike Friesz is the pastor of Calvary Baptist Church. He can be reached by email at drmikefriesz@sbcglobal.net.
