Spiritual Conversations

SPIRITUAL CONVERSATIONS

When Christ came, he fed and healed people’s bodies, cast out demons, taught, and had SPIRITUAL CONVERSATIONS. Barna Group research shows we all can become more intentional in our outreach and actually enjoy sharing Jesus with others when we do.

Christian researcher George Barna described eager conversationalists as people who:

  • EMBRACE THE GOSPEL. They have a clear understanding that salvation comes from belief in Jesus Christ alone.
  •  APPLY SPIRITUAL DISCIPLINES. They actively seek to grow their faith through prayer, the Bible, and regular worship.
  • GRASP THE CALLING. These individuals know that are part of the “priesthood of all believers”.
  • EXPECT SPIRITUAL CONVERSATIONS. This group is ready to participate in spiritual conversations.
  • RESPOND CONFIDENTLY. These individuals feel qualified to share their faith and are glad when they do.

Source: Lutheran Hour Ministries – lhm.org

Key Insights

  • TIME: This process may take weeks, or an hour or two with the person next to you on an airplane.
  • RELATIONSHIPS: It’s all about developing a relationship with that person. They don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.
  • COMPASSION is key; Jesus had compassion on people, so He reached out and ministered to them.
  • SURPRISE OR PLANNED: Spiritual conversations may happen unexpectedly, but they may be in fact divine appointments from the Lord.
  • A DIVINE APPOINTMENT may be lunch with a friend, talking with a plumber, or a brief conversation with the person asking for help at the street intersection.
  • DON’T WORRY: The Holy Spirit will give us the words to say. It’s about being ready to respond when the opportunity presents itself.
  • SLOW DOWN: When we relate to the people who come across our paths, it can be a totally different experience.
  • OPEN THE DOOR: Everyone has some religious experience, so we can relate to that experience.  This can open the door to a spiritual conversation.
  • RELIGION HURT: Many people have had hurtful experiences with churches or other religions. We need to be aware of that, and minister to them with the love of Christ.

Everyone has a story, is broken, and needs our Lord. So let us reach out and engage them in spiritual conversations with the love and truth of Christ, for time is short, eternity is forever, and we are not guaranteed tomorrow.

To God be the glory

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