The key to proclaiming the Gospel of Christ by our way of living and talking is making sure that the two are only separated by time and opportunity. What does that mean? You may begin to share the Gospel of Christ with people verbally and they just don’t want to hear it right then. So, you don’t chastise them for that or try to beat it over their heads. Instead, you live out a Gospel lifestyle in front of them. Over time, as they see your genuineness, the opportunity may then present itself for you to share with them verbally; at a time when they are ready to listen. Two verses that speak directly to time and opportunity are: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16) and “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15). When you take the truths of these two verses and put them together, you can see how one affects the other. It’s like the old cliche, “If your walk doesn’t match your talk, then what you say doesn’t matter.” If we pursue Christlikeness in love and service to the Father and to others, we will preserve and build relationships that allow us to speak the truth of the Gospel message to many, thereby giving God the glory. What does that look like specifically? Imitating Jesus in daily life, speaking plainly, pointing everything to the Father, inviting people to church, sharing resources, being patient, and much more. Remember, you are not the Holy Spirit. Speak the Gospel truth in love and let Him do His job. Results are NOT up to us, but obedience is! Paul gives us a simple version of what to share in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4. Now go! Live and speak; proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
