May 2010

If someone came to you as the Philippian Jailer came to the Apostle Paul in Acts 16 and said, "What must I do to be saved?" do you know what you would say? The Apostle Peter writes in 1 Peter 3:15-16 "but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect." Are you prepared?

There are many formats that have used to present the Gospel. For many years the Billy Graham organization used, "Steps to Peace with God" based on his bestselling book, "Peace with God." Some have used the booklet by Campus Crusade (1965), "The Four Spiritual Laws."

Another format we have used is the A-B-C method. A = Admit that I am a sinner. B = Believe that God’s Son Jesus died for my sins. C = Confess that Jesus is Lord and believe God raised Jesus from the dead.

Here at Valley many learned the "Bridge to Life" (1969) illustration with verses. All have sinned. Sin’s penalty. Christ paid the penalty. Salvation not by works. Must receive Christ. Assurance of salvation.

John Piper (2005) wrote two booklets that can be used, "For Your Joy," and "In Our Joy." John Stott has a booklet that has been widely used, "Becoming a Christian."

There is a book (2008) entitled "True Story," by James Chuong that seeks to witness based on "The Big Story" of the Bible. It comes with a small booklet entitled "Based on a True Story" that is an abbreviated presentation. It has the advantage of beginning with the world at creation pointing out that it was "Designed for good" in harmony in all parts. It shows how this world was "Damaged by Evil." Through the entry of Jesus into the world and his death the world can be "Restored for better." It ends with God’s people on a mission to bring this restoration and redemption to our world, "Sent together to heal." I like this last one. Any of these is better than nothing. So if you are using nothing, or are not sure, look up and order one of more of these and be ready.