1 Samuel 14:6–7 Jonathan said to the young man who carried his armor, “Come, let us go over to the garrison of these uncircumcised. It may be that the Lord will work for us, for nothing can hinder the Lord from saving by many or by few.” 7 And his armor-bearer said to him, “Do all that is in your heart. Do as you wish. Behold, I am with you heart and soul.”

What is the best thing that has happened to you over the past three months?

Did you tell anyone about it?

“People enjoy speaking of positive news and remember good news clearly.”

- Trnd.com

Creation

Genesis 1:31 And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.

Jesus’ Birth

Luke 2:10 The angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.”

Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, “Your God reigns.”

What keeps us from sharing the gospel with those who don’t know Jesus?

A. We do not think others will receive it as good news. (We wonder if they will turn their backs on the message or on us. Or ask us something for which we do not have an answer.)

B. We do not actually think it is good news.

1. Is it good news for now?

Mark 1:14–15 Now after John was arrested, Jesus came into Galilee, proclaiming the gospel of God, 15 and saying, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.”

Jesus taught about how to live:• Loving our neighbors• Forgiving others• Living lives of simplicity & generosity• Crossing cultural barriers• Empowering others• Seeking justice• Praying for miracles• Connecting with God in our daily lives

Yet today none of that seems to matter:• You can hate your neighbor • Act on your racist prejudices• Spend all of your wealth on yourself• Care nothing for the lost, hurting, and

poor

It can be difficult to tell good news about something that is only for then and not for now…. but it is for now!

2. Is it good news for me?

Is it good to be Christian or is being a Christian just about being good?

John 10:10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.

You will accomplish more in the next twelve months developing sincere interest in two other people, than you will accomplish in the next twelve years trying to get two people interested in you.

– Tim Sanders

3. Is it good news for them?

Evangelism is one of the most countercultural things we can do today.

Preach the gospel at all times; if necessary, use words.

- misattributed to St. Francis of Assisi

No brother should preach contrary to the form and regulations of the holy Church nor unless he has been permitted by his minister . . . All the Friars . . . should preach by their deeds.

- Rule of 1221, Chapter XII

Essentially, make sure your deeds match your words.

Romans 10:14 How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?

Good news is told by our words and through our actions.

1 Peter 3:15 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

Good news is told by our words and through our actions.