The Gospel in Action

Bible Reading: Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 3:1-3; Titus 2:7-10

“Mom, it’s just no use,” said Mila. “I’ve tried and tried to get Freya to come to church with us, but she won’t.”

Mila’s twin sister Adison nodded. “And I tried to give her a Bible and some Christian books I thought she’d like, but she won’t even look at them.”

“I even tried to tell her about Jesus,” said Mila. “But she just said, ‘Not interested!’ She wouldn’t even listen to me.”

“So how’s she ever going to hear the gospel and know that Jesus loves her and died to save her?” asked Adison.

Mom smiled at her daughters. “Well, she has both of you, doesn’t she?”

“But, Mom,” said Adison, “we just told you—she won’t listen to us or read what we give her.”

“Well, she may not hear the gospel the way we do—by hearing it in church or by reading the Bible,” said Mom. “But I hope she will see it and hear it as she gets to know you better.”

The girls looked at each other and frowned. “I don’t get it,” said Mila.

“You know that some of the New Testament books, called epistles, are actually letters to churches, don’t you?” asked Mom.

“Yeah, I think our teacher at church told us that once,” said Adison.

Mom nodded. “And all these letters—which are part of God’s Word—are inspired by God Himself, right?” The girls nodded. “Well, did you know the Bible also says that each of you is a letter from Christ?” Mom asked.

Both girls raised their eyebrows. “What does that mean?” asked Mila.

“It means that talking isn’t the only way to share the gospel,” answered Mom. “As people see the way you live, it’s like they’re reading you. When you live in a way that shows others God’s love, you touch people’s hearts and make them want to know what makes you different. That may make it possible for you—or someone else—to tell them the good news of Jesus when they’re ready to hear it.”

-Tanya Ferdinandusz

How About You?

Do you think the only way you can share the gospel is by talking—by telling someone that Jesus died for them? Telling others the good news of Jesus is a very important part of sharing the gospel, but you can also share it in the way you live. Next time a friend refuses to listen when you talk about Jesus, don’t be discouraged. Instead, let them see how Jesus has changed your heart through kind words and loving actions. When your friend sees the gospel in action, they may eventually want to hear it in words too.

Today’s Key Verse:
2 Corinthians 3:2 You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. (CSB)

Today’s Key Thought:

Share the gospel in the way you live