How can we share our faith when states are on lockdown and personal contact is prohibited? Evangelism is still very possible, and even more necessary, when we are confined to our homes.
People are more willing to talk about spiritual things in times of crisis. After September 11, 2001, church attendance soared with people searching for meaning and hope. But now, during COVID-19, even the church doors are closed. Where will they find that hope? From Christians. From us.
Beth made a routine visit to her bank right after she heard about the epidemic. When the teller asked her what she thought, Beth didn’t hesitate. “I am thankful God is on the throne, and I praise Him for taking care of it.”
The teller’s shoulders dropped. As a believer, she was distraught as she watched people withdraw large amounts of money out of their accounts in fear. What could she say? But Beth urged her to be an encouragement to every person who walked in that bank.
As believers, we are called to share the hope that Jesus has given to us – the hope of eternal life. We are the church in our neighborhoods and local communities. And in this age of technology, we don’t have to sit down with someone in person to share the Gospel. We can do it digitally – over the phone, on social media, by sending a letter, or using text or Facetime – the opportunities are endless.
During a visit to the U.S. several months ago, a Chinese woman visited a church in Houston, Texas, where she made the decision to follow Jesus. When she returned to China, she began sharing her new faith with her friends and family. And as the COVID-19 epidemic increased and quarantines imposed, she continued to share Christ via text. Many of her family and friends have come to Jesus because she reached out using technology during this time of crisis
First, pray. Ask God for opportunities to share His love with others. Then, invite a friend to “meet” you for coffee over a Facetime video chat. Go for a walk and check in with your neighbors. Give someone in your family a call and ask, “How are you doing?” Send a text and let a coworker know that you are praying for them. People will wonder how we can remain calm or have hope in a time like this. And often, these simple acts of compassion open doors for us to share the greatest hope we have: Jesus Christ.
Don’t be afraid to step out in faith and share Jesus in a new way. God has given us some incredible tools during this time of crisis. Let’s use them to share the hope that we have with others! May God bless you as you do!
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Rev. John B. Sorensen, D.D. is the President/CEO of Evangelism Explosion International, headquartered in Arden, N.C. EE has been a leader in equipping Christians to share their faith for more than 50 years. For more free tips and resources, visit evangelismexplosion.org.