Keep Your Witness Simple & Conversational

To many Christians, "witnessing" seems to be a rather frightening word. They somehow have the idea that witnessing has to involve the recitation of a lot of memorized scripture verses and the "preaching" of their beliefs to strangers. Actually, witnessing should be as simple and easy as normal conversation with friends and family. Randy Raysbrook, in Discipleship Journal, lists six things for people of all ages to keep in mind as they talk with others about Jesus:

Be natural. Just act normal and treat the topic of Jesus like any other topic. Think, "it's no big deal" when you’re talking, and your ease will come across.

Be open. You’ve found an incredible Savior, but be honest – you haven’t really found all of the answers. Let people know about your struggles.

Be respectful. Look for the reflection of God’s image in each person, and treat people with respect.

Be simple. Avoid Christian "jargon."

Don’t forget. Remember what you were like before you became a Christian.

Be patient. People may not understand or respond to you the first time. Trust God to bring about the results he desires.

(This article appeared in the "Winter, 1994-95" issue of "The Herald.")