Every believer is to be a witness for the Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 24:48; Acts 1:8). In fact, every Christian is a witness — we may be a good one or a poor one, but we all testify to those around us about the reality of Christ in us! Gypsy Smith said that God wrote five gospel records: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and the believer. Then he said, “Most people will never read the first four!” Someone is reading your life and what they know about Christ is what they see and hear in you.
Has Jesus changed your heart? Then tell someone! “Let the redeemed of the Lord say so” (Psalm 107:2). Our life and our lips should witness to others about the salvation that is found only in the Lord Jesus. In a world where godless people are bold and active about speaking up for their cause, true followers of Christ should be unashamed to share with others the good news of eternal life.
Here are 5 books that have challenged me to witness and helped me to learn how:
- The Passion for Souls by Oswald J. Smith: Smith was a missionary statesman who had an intense burden to reach the world for Christ. In this little book he shows the connection between world evangelism and personal evangelism. His writings will set your heart on fire for the Lord and the lost.
- How to Work for Christ by R.A. Torrey: This volume is full of practical helps for how to share the gospel effectively and also deal with different types of people. A great resource for those who want to be ready to answer questions and help people where they are.
- With Christ After the Lost by L.R. Scarborough: Scarborough, a dedicated soul winner himself, gives a tremendous Bible foundation for evangelism and then builds upon it with practical application.
- Following Christ and Fishing for Men by Clarence Sexton: Written by my mentor, this book was one of the early books that shaped my thinking about the place of witnessing in the life of a believer. It addresses the key portions of Scripture dealing with Christ’s commission and provides a simple way to present the gospel to any person.
- The Soul Winner by Charles Spurgeon: This book is a classic and should be read and reread by all who are serious about making their life count for eternity. Like all of Spurgeon’s works you have to have your mind engaged as you read, but this is one that should be read a little at a time. Meditate on a small portion and pray over it. There is a lot of meat in this book.
What book has encouraged and equipped you to be a more faithful witness for Christ?
*First published on Enjoying the Journey.
Author: Scott Pauley
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