“Would you like to become a follower of Jesus?” Gulp. If you’ve never said those words to anyone, your heart might speed up just thinking about it.

This is why practice is such a great idea. Inviting someone to become a Christian is a lot like learning to drive a car. At first, you have to think about every step: “Foot on brake. Turn key. Check mirrors. Shift into drive.” It doesn’t take long, though, before you’re just … driving.

Practice. At first, it may feel a little strange. But when the time is right, you’ll be able to introduce your friend to Jesus.

Get Ready

For this stage, rather than looking at specific verses, familiarize yourself with the whole Gospel story. When you read through the New Testament, you realize that the Gospel is a huge concept. A lot of us find it challenging to put the Good News into just a few words, and rightly so. This is truth that is deep, and rich, and wide.

Below are three Gospel presentations that have stood the test of time in a Western context. They are wonderful summaries that capture the key points in a clear, simple way. Choose one and take 10-15 minutes to get to know it well. Even if you don’t pull it out when seekers ask you a question, you’ll be more prepared when they do.

Once your friend opens up to change, there are only two spiritual thresholds left to cross: seeking God and entering the Kingdom. How do you help your friends with the seeking God part? There’s no one-size-fits-all approach here.  Take a look at this list of ideas. Then encourage them to try the ones that seem to fit best. Check in now and then. Answer questions that come up. Keep praying!

When your friend seems ready, give a clear invitation (“Would you like to give your life to Christ?”) along with a clear presentation of the Gospel (“Here’s what that actually means”).

updated August 2019

Photo Credit: Clem Onojeghuo