Be Ready. Be Wise. Be Clear.

Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus. Acts 8:35

In Acts chapter eight we read the story of a high-profile leader who surrendered to Christ. This man held a position similar to the Chancellor of the Exchequer in Britain and the Secretary of the Treasury in the United States. And he was led to Christ by a low-profile person called Philip, a church deacon (see vv. 26-40). Let’s look at how it happened and see what we can learn: 1) Philip was ready. When this man needed someone to explain the gospel to him, Philip was ready to do it. Could you have done that? When God has a job that needs to be done, could He call on you? Would you be prepared? And willing? ‘If anybody asks you why you believe as you do…tell him’ (1 Peter 3:15). 2) Philip was wise. He didn’t barge in and start preaching, or put this man on the spot by asking ‘gotcha’ questions. Note two things about Philip: a) He was led by God’s spirit (see Acts 8:29). b) He recognized the right moment (see v. 35). Good soul-winners are sensitive and strategic. 3) Philip was clear. Instead of a vague dialogue about religion, he spoke directly about Jesus. That’s what people need – a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ! They need to know He’s alive, and that He loves them. That He’s powerful enough to run the universe, yet personal enough to forgive their sins, break their habits, and resolve their doubts. Your job is to extend the invitation, and let Jesus do the rest. Do you need a soul-winning strategy? Try this one – it works!

Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me always be ready to give an answer to those who ask the reason for my hope in Jesus Christ. In His Precious Name, Amen