7 Keys for Fruitful Witnessing

What is Witnessing?

‘Witnessing’ plainly put is to introduce Jesus to others who do not yet know Him.

Who is Called to Witness?

Are you among those who believe witnessing is something you are gifted at or you are not? Or maybe you think that’s the calling reserved for your church pastor or leadership team. Well let’s get it loud and clear – Witnessing is a command that every believer ought to follow (Mark 16:15, Matthew 28:19-20). In fact Jesus in His last words to His disciples before ascension speaks about ‘becoming His witnesses’ (Acts1:8).

More than a command, don’t you think it’s a privilege to share the love of Jesus with those who are still in bondage? For a child of God, witnessing or sharing one’s faith should come as naturally as praying, reading the word of God or any other aspect of his spiritual life. I can go to the extent of saying that unless you are witnessing, your spiritual life is dead. Let’s learn to freely give what we have freely received (Matt10:8b).

How to Witness?

There is no standardized or universal way to witness. God has created you uniquely with your own personality, background, and testimony to share Him with others the way you want. Even the same person may witness in different ways at different times. Of course the most important thing is that you should first experience knowing Christ for yourself, before you share Him with others– for you can’t share something you don’t have!

Here are seven keys that can help you to witness fruitfully:

1. It Begins With Love & Compassion for the Lost

A loving and compassionate heart is an indispensable prerequisite to be a witness. Unless you are genuinely burdened for those that are lost, you will never witness or your witnessing will be nothing more than a religious ritual. If lack of motivation is a hurdle for you to witness, pray to God that He would fill your heart with love and compassion for your fellow brethren.

2. Listen to Your Helper

Always be led by the Holy Spirit in when, how and whom to approach when witnessing. Pray and seek God’s direction in leading you to souls that may be in your locality, workplace etc.  And then as God leads, by faith, take the necessary step, knowing that His promise to you is: Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it. (Psalm 81:10b).

 3. All Authority is Yours

God never commands us to do anything that His grace will not enable. According to His word, as His child, you are already equipped with the tools and power you will need to succeed while witnessing. Jesus said: All authority is yours – not only on earth, but also in heaven (Matthew 28:18-20). So cast away all your fears, inhibitions and insecurities.

 4. Remember, No Effort is Small

Every effort that you make and every seed that you sow; be it through a word of encouragement, sharing your testimony, prayer etc is invaluable in the eyes of God. Never compare yourselves with others, but keep doing what God is asking you to do.

 5. Be Determined

A witness is like a devoted laborer. Once a seed is sown, it requires much patience, prayer and faith to see it grow. Sometimes you may see fast results, but a lot of times, it may seem that nothing is happening. But then be encouraged knowing that you have done your part.  Continue to pray and follow up. God loves His lost children and is more concerned about them than you. At the right time, God will cause the word that you have sown to bear fruit.

 6. Be Open

Be open to creative ways of witnessing. Apart from the conventional act of giving tracts or sharing of word, there are plenty of opportunities that you can get to witness. How about sending a scriptural birthday card for someone’s birthday, instead of the regular ones? Or sharing Bible-based tweets/status updates on your social media profile? I have received emails from believers who have a scripture in their signature- now that can be a good start. Business people can keep their brand and company names originated from the Bible, which can trigger conversations. The ways are many, but the best way is the way that God leads you to, by His Spirit.

 7. Be a Living Example

Last but not the least, the most effective witnessing I believe is showcased through your life, more than your words. This means to live by the principles taught by Jesus whom you proclaim. Of course, no one is perfect, but be genuine and practice what you preach. Love unconditionally, be quick to forgive, extend grace and speak words that encourage. Imagine what joy it will be when others look at life’s testimony and say, “This has to be God and I want to know Him too”.

Question: What is the biggest hurdle you face while witnessing for Christ?

Next in the series: Spiritual Warfare – Weapons of a Believer