Bible Reading: Matthew 7:13 & 14
In Matthew 7:13 Jesus said, “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.” The gate Jesus was
talking about was the way into heaven.
What is that gate?
That gate isn’t a “what,” it’s a “Who.” That gate is Jesus. Jesus is the only gate that leads to heaven. It is up to us to lead people to that gate. It doesn’t usually work to just burst in on someone and start preaching to them. Instead, we need to find ways start a relationship with that person. Once we have begun a relationship we can look for opportunities to share Jesus with them.
There are many ways to start a friendship with a person and prepare the way to talk to them about Jesus. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Share your favorite snack.
2. Offer to help him or her with a homework assignment.
3. Offer him or her a ride to school, work, or the store.
4. Buy him or her some fries or a soft drink.
5. Offer to help the person with his or her chores at home.
6. Invite him or her to your house for dinner.
7. Give him or her a sincere compliment.
8. See a good movie or concert together.
9. Tell him or her your favorite joke.
10. Smile.
Remember to pray before, during, and after talking to someone about Jesus. Ask God to prepare the heart of whomever you are talking to about Jesus. Also, ask God to give you the right words to say. He will bless your efforts.
“I [Jesus] am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. He will come in and go out, and find pasture.” John 10:9
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to guide the people I talk to toward Jesus, the Gate into heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen.