One of the scariest words in the Christian faith is the word evangelism. We often think of street preachers and bold missionaries and think that we could never do what they do. In the message this week I want to change our conception of how Christians are called to share their faith by using a different word than evangelism and sharing the power of your story.

Acts 1:1-8

In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day He was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that He was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the Kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while He was eating with them, He gave them this command: “Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift My Father promised, which you have heard Me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” 6 Then they gathered around him and asked him, “Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?” 7 He said to them: “It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Discipleship Questions:
For Adult Homes and Groups
1. Read Acts 1:1-8.
2. Who is one person whose story inspires you and why?
3. Did that person’s story involve struggle or overcoming obstacles?
4. Can you think of one Biblical character (apart from Jesus) whose story doesn’t include flaws? What do you think that says about who God can use to impact people?
5. Knowing that God can use broken people, who needs to hear your story this week that you can share with?

For Families with Kids
1. What is one of your favorite stories of all time? Why do you like that story?
2. If someone asked you what the Gospel is, would you be comfortable sharing that story? Why or why not?
3. Why is it important that the people in your life know the Gospel?
4. Bonus Activity: Brainstorm a list of people who you think might not have heard the Gospel. Be on the lookout for times when God might be leading you to share the greatest story ever with those people!