There are countless stories that you can tell to bring someone to the knowledge of Jesus. Many evangelists, missionaries, and public figures have incredible testimonies of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. But the most powerful tool in ministry is your personal story—your own testimony.

Dr. Barry Burns, a former pastor of ours, once said something that has stuck with me: "Nothing is ever as powerful unless it is, first, personal!"

Three Key Aspects of Salvation Coming to saving grace involves three major areas:

1. God’s Design – Recognizing His perfect plan.

2. Your Brokenness – Understanding how sin separates us.

3. The Gospel – The good news that Jesus restores us.

To reach someone, you must first meet them where they are. Building rapport is the beginning of an acquaintance. From there, you develop a fledgling friendship. Through this process, they get to know you—and more importantly, you have the opportunity to show them Christ through your life. This is where your personal story comes into play. You can share how you came to realize there was a bigger picture—God’s design (Jeremiah 29:11). How did you come to understand that your life, apart from Him, was incomplete?

Then, you can explain your own brokenness—the realization that you didn't measure up to God's perfect standard (Romans 3:23). You may have tried to reconcile yourself to God through works or personal efforts, only to find that it was impossible. Share the struggles, the challenges, and the moments when you felt the weight of your sin.

The Last and Most Important Piece: The Gospel

Finally, share how you encountered the gospel. Was it through a TV program? A podcast? The internet? A church service? A friend? No matter the circumstance, God used it to draw you in. The person you’re speaking with may have questions, and you have answers (1 Peter 3:15). But above all, be real—be authentic!

We live in a world where social media and television glorify a curated, fake existence. But people crave authenticity. What better place to be completely real than in your faith in Jesus? When people sense that you are genuine, their walls start to come down. They may not agree with your message right away, but they will see that you truly believe it—and that can plant a powerful seed.

A Biblical Example: The Samaritan Woman

Think about the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4:4-30).

Why did she go to the well in the middle of the day? Because she wanted to avoid the judgmental stares and whispers of others. She had a bad reputation and didn’t want to face the gossipers who came in the morning. But this is exactly when and where she met Jesus.

Jesus told her everything about her past, her sins, and her need for salvation. He knew her in a way that no one else did. She recognized something about His authenticity, and her heart was stirred.

Excited and transformed, she ran into town, saying:

She didn't have theological training. She didn't have a polished argument. She simply had her story—and it was enough to draw people to Jesus.

Your Testimony Matters

Let that be an example for us!

Your testimony is the most powerful tool you have for spreading the kingdom of God. Recount your story often. In the business world, they call it an "elevator pitch"—a quick, compelling summary of your message. Be real, be authentic...be YOU!

As 1 Peter 3:15 instructs:

“Always be ready to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that is in you. But do this with gentleness and respect.”