Have you ever had food or watched a movie that is so good to you and made you so excited to share with others? Have you ever then shared it and convinced them to try? Similar to sharing good experiences, sharing our story is a powerful way to share the Gospel. Stories that come from experience are personal and irrefutable. It also shows that the Gospel is more than just a concept but something that is tested and true. However, sharing your Gospel story can also be intimidating, especially when you are unsure how to go about it. The SHARE acronym can give you a few simple tips on how to make sharing the Gospel less daunting!
SHARE
- S – Structure your story
Before you share your story with someone, it is important for you to know your story well. Knowing your story well and structuring it will help you to share it more effectively. You can use the principles below as you’re structuring your story:
- Theme of your story: When you think about your Gospel story at a glance, what is the one thing that stands out to you? What is one character of God that comes to your mind? Some examples are God’s faithfulness, freedom, forgiveness, peace.
- Time before Christ: How were you before you knew Christ in your life? What were some of the struggles that you experienced? Were you lonely, lost, or confused?
- Time after Christ: How are you now that you have Christ in your life? What’s the difference that you noticed when you compare it with your life before you met Christ?
- H – Highlight your experience
Now that you have your storyline on hand, think of a few moments or specific experiences that highlight your Gospel story. You can use these experiences to show the contrast from who/how you are before and after knowing Christ. Be honest and vulnerable about your struggles and how your faith has helped you through them. People are drawn and relate to those who are authentic and honest with their struggles and weaknesses, more so than when you boast on achievements. Remember, the highlight of your story is not you nor the experience, but Jesus. Make sure to keep it Christ-centered!
- A – Awareness of the situation
As you’re sharing your story, pay attention to some verbal and non-verbal cues, such as small comments or remarks, eye contact and facial expressions. Are they engaged with your story? Do they seem to understand what you’re sharing? Are they responding? Be aware of your audience and situation, and respond accordingly.
- R – Respond lovingly and wisely
We need to keep in mind that people usually have certain biases or existing views about Christianity as they go into the conversation. Your Gospel story may elicit a response from your audience. Whether the response is positive or negative, it is important to acknowledge them. Some ways to respond lovingly and wisely are by listening actively to their responses and trying to understand their perspectives. You may also ask a follow-up question as needed. Be prepared to give them answers when they’re asking you questions as well. Prevent yourself from answering for the sake of answering — if you do not have an answer to their questions. You may acknowledge their questions and let them know your follow-up actions. Lastly, do not focus on your fear of getting rejected. Focus on Christ and the people you’re sharing with!
- E – Engage with their story
The end goal of sharing your Gospel story is to help people understand and relate to Jesus through your story. Firstly, find ways for them to connect and relate to their experience. You may do so by asking them whether they have a similar experience as you, or if they’re able to relate to anything that you shared. Afterwards, encourage them for what they share.
Use principles in the SHARE acronym whenever you share your Gospel story, and let God use your story powerfully to speak to the person you are sharing with!