5G: Go

MAY 22 / Sunday – Read Matthew 28:16-20 / Luke 24:50-52

Overview: The “Great Commission”? Go and make disciples of Jesus. It’s quite the journey.

23 / Mon – The mission  |  Read Matthew 28:16-20

You have probably heard of the Great Commission Jesus gave to his disciples after the resurrection and before he returned to heaven. Verse 19 begins with the word therefore so it is important to see what comes before it. Why is his claim in verse 18 important to the commands that follow? Do his directives seem overwhelming at times? Remember, these came after the disciples had spent several years being taught by Jesus. And his words come with a promise, to them and to us.

24 / Tue – Telling what you know  |  Read John 4:39 / Luke 24:46-49

Have you ever served as a juror in a court case? If not, you probably have watched a few TV shows. The outcome of any case is decided by the evidence and the testimony of one or more witnesses. A witness is one who gives a statement of what they personally have seen, heard or experienced.  No hearsay is allowed. Luke uses this word in his account of Jesus’ final instructions to the disciples. If someone asked you what you have seen, heard or experienced with Jesus, what would you say?

25 / Wed – A critical difference  |  Read Matthew 7:21-23

There is a difference between knowing who someone is (like the President) and knowing them in real life. The people had heard of Jesus, knew him as someone who performed miracles and may have even met him in person, but the ones who really got to know him were those who spent the most time with him. They engaged in conversations, asked questions and listened to his answers. We do not have those opportunities today. Or do we?

26 / Thu – The value of listening before you speak  |  Read James 1:19

Does the word evangelism spark negative feelings because you were the recipient of another’s bumbling efforts or maybe you blew it when you have tried in the past? One pastor suggests the idea of listener evangelism. It starts by listening to another person, looking for commonalities in both your stories and connecting these to God’s bigger story (his original plan for humankind, the fall, redemption, restoration). Are you willing to try? Talk it over with the Lord. He will help you.

27 / Fri – The right words  |  Read 1 Corinthians 15:1-8

Some Christians feel inadequate to articulate the gospel. They think they need to have a script or ‘elevator’ speech ready. It is important to think about what you would say if an opportunity arose, but the Holy Spirit will give you the right words. The gospel in a nutshell is found in the scriptures for today. Gospel means good news. What is your good news? Your story is how this truth has and is changing you. You don’t need a script. Just ask the Holy Spirit to empower you. Then be ready.

28 / Sat – Prayer prepares both of you  |  Read 2 Corinthians 5:16

Just like garden soil needs to be cultivated before seeds will grow, so does a heart. God is already working in the life of every person you know and those you meet by chance. If you want people to encounter the real Jesus, prayer is where to start. Ask God to help you recognize any opportunities to nudge people in his direction. Pray they will have open ears and a receptive heart. Too often people think God doesn’t care. Will you endeavor to show them that he does?