Compelled to Share Christ

Scripture Reading: Matthew 9:27-38

Seeing the people, he felt compassion for them, because they were distressed and dispirited like sheep without a shepherd. (Mt. 9:36 NASB)

Have you ever struggled with the fear of rejection?

     A number of years ago I was engaged in door-to-door evangelism. It was my worst nightmare. I was so overcome with the fear of rejection that I had to literally force myself to knock on the door. On more than one occasion I had the door slammed in my face which multiplied the fear. I told the Lord, “I’m not cut out for this,” but the Lord seemed to say, “I will be with you.” What a struggle! The verse in Proverbs 29:25 could easily be applied to my situation, “The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.” (NKJ) I was guilty of the fear of man, and failed to apply faith.

     How can we overcome this fear of rejection? There are several options that we can choose from: (1) abide in Christ and let his words abide in you (John 15:5), (2) memorize appropriate Scripture verses to use when witnessing, (3) write out your testimony on how you came to know Christ to share with those you meet, (4) ask God to give you the same compelling compassion that was exhibited by his Son, Jesus Christ.

     There are a number of compelling reasons why I should share Christ with others: First, I am compelled to reach people for Christ because they are lost and without hope, Second, I am compelled to share Christ because hell is a real place and multitudes are going there. Third, I am compelled to share Christ because of what he did in changing my life, Fourth, I am compelled to share Christ because he paid the ultimate price for my redemption.

     Do you feel compelled to share Christ? What can you do? Here are a few suggestions: Invite neighbors to share a dinner in your home. Let them see Christ in you. Start a backyard Bible club in your neighborhood and share Christ with the children. When you eat out in a restaurant, leave a nice tip inside a gospel tract. Volunteer your time at a local thrift shop. Help with Meals on Wheels at a local senior citizens center. Offer to watch a neighbor’s pets while they go on vacation. Send cards of hope and encouragement to seniors and handicapped people.

     In order to overcome rejection, we all need to persevere and share Christ as the Holy Spirit gives opportunity.  The Apostle Paul encourages us by saying, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” (NKJ)

Prayer: Dear Lord, with your help I can overcome the fear of rejection by putting into practice the compassion that Jesus Christ showed to those he met.