The goal of this week's rGroup is to have everyone share their story of how they met Jesus, and to hear the story of other people in your group. I want you to follow the outline that is laid out by Peter in Acts 2. If someone in your group is not a follower of Jesus, obviously don't put them on the spot. Take this time to tell them 4-5 Gospel stories, and BE BOLD! Just like Peter, after they hear the stories give them an opportunity to respond to the message of Jesus! If someone does make a decision for Christ, be sure to let us know so that we can celebrate with you and help them Move Forward in their relationship with Jesus. Email Pastor Paul at paul@discoverREVO.com
As the group leader, you start the sharing time off. Give your testimony first. Then, walk through the process one question at a time with each group member and help them tell their story.
#1- Talk about what Jesus has done in your life. Peter mentions that Jesus did signs, miracles, and taught when he was on earth. He didn't have to go into too much detail because most of the people there had witnessed the life of Jesus life personally. Sharing Scripture with people is incredibly helpful, but many people that don't know Jesus today want a modern-day example or application of what it means to follow Jesus and how Jesus affects our lives today. It's important to use personal examples in your testimony to help bridge the gap between a 2,000 year old book and the saving power of Jesus today.
#2- Talk about what Jesus has done for mankind. Peter mentions that Jesus died on the cross to pay for the sins of man. For this particular audience, part of the sin in their lives was murdering the Son of God! Today, we understand that the sins of man are what Jesus paid for on the cross. It's the real reason why he died. But for these men, they literally killed Jesus. Peter calls them out on their sin, but also reiterates that Jesus died not only for the 12 disciples, but even for those people that literally put him on the cross. It's important to let people know that Jesus died for THEIR sins as well.
#3- Tell people why they need Jesus. A common thought in society today is to think that we are basically "good people." You'd be surprised how many people think they are going to heaven just because they are acting half-way decent here on earth. Part of the process in telling someone about Jesus is helping them realize their need for a savior. There has to be a payment for our sins, and the only one that was sufficient to be a sacrifice was Jesus. There is only one way to God/heaven, and that's through Jesus. That's why we need him so badly.
#4- Use the Bible. Peter quotes from the book of Joel and the book of Psalms in his Gospel presentation. Even if the person you are talking to doesn't believe in the Bible, it is an invaluable tool. Scripture has the ability to soften hearts and challenge the mind. Don't discount what the simple proclamation of this powerful book can accomplish as you talk to people about Jesus. It's a great idea to have a few verses memorized, that way you don't have to flip through your Bible too much, and can share your story even if you don't have a Bible with you.
#5-Give them an opportunity to respond. The person you are talking to could really be tracking with you and believe in what you say. They could be ready to make a decision to give their life to Christ! Chances are though, they aren't going to know what to do next. They don't know they need to confess their sins, repent, and make a commitment to follow Jesus. They don't know they need to get plugged into a local church and be baptized. They don't know the next steps of Moving Forward and growing in their relationship with Jesus. It's up to you to ask them. One of the easiest things to do at the end of the story is to simply ask them, "So what do you think about that? Does any of that make sense?" Their answer will give you a gauge as to where they are in the process. You may have to answer a question, clarify something, or elaborate more on one of the points. Whatever it is, be diligent to give them an opportunity to respond. You never know how the Holy Spirit is using you and working in their life.
Live Bold this week! I hope to hear some incredible stories coming out of your rGroups as a result of you helping your group get familiar with their Jesus story. Challenge them to share their story with at least one person this week. When you get back together next week, be accountable with one another and ask how God used them and their story over the past few days. I can't wait to hear about it!
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