Over the past 10 days, I (along with other One Lifers) have been reading in the book of Acts. I recently read the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. I’ve read the story numerous times in the past, but I was struck by something yesterday. There’s this verse that says:
So beginning with this same Scripture, Philip told him the Good News about Jesus. (Acts 8:35 NLT)
Reading that verse made me stop and think through how we share the “Good News about Jesus.” When I am teaching or just being conversational with someone about Jesus, how I communicate the message is important. I believe from this passage there is a very clear implication for cultural communication.
If we’re going to communicate the gospel in culturally relevant ways, we must begin with where they are.
My default mechanism is to talk about things that interest me. I love discussions revolving around fantasy football, the Florida Gators and my girls. However, so many people do not share those interests. In order to be less “me-centric” and more effective in sharing my Jesus story, I need to begin with where they are at that moment. It might mean talking about education theory, home remodeling or even country music. I might find myself talking basketball or Sour Patch Kids. The point is not the particular beginning point but more that I don’t need to pick the point. I can allow the other person to lead the conversation and naturally address the gospel as it comes up in conversation.
In our messages on Sunday morning, we try to build common ground with those listening. We do this through humor and talking through current events. Neither of these methods are ground-breaking, but they do matter. They allow me (and others who are teaching) to build rapport and from there explain how the biblical message is relevant and important for life today. It’s how we are doing it on Sunday mornings.
What are some places or ways that you can begin the conversation and bring the gospel into the conversations you are having?
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