Fresh Start October 2016 | Page 23

4. Sharing the gospel is a powerful way to love people. We find inspiration to love others from God’s love for us. His sacrificial love was a free gift to you, and it’s a gift you’re intended to pass along (Matthew 10:8). In 2 Corinthians 5:14, it says, “For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died.” You can love people by introducing them to God’s love and compassion as demonstrated by Christ on the cross. 5. The future of unbelievers matters deeply to God. Humankind desperately needs the salvation Jesus offers. John 3:18 says, “Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.” As Christians, our awareness that family, friends, and strangers will otherwise be eternally separated from God motivates us to proclaim the hope of Christ. Similarly, Philippians 2:3-4 encourages us to “value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Witnessing to the people in your life is a way to put the utmost value on their lives—their eternal lives. Even more, it brings both God and us joy. Luke 15:7 and 15:10 tell us there is rejoicing in heaven when even one sinner repents. Beyond the heavenly celebration, we too experience great joy when we see people’s lives transformed by Christ. 6. God is passionate about our personal growth. When we proclaim the good news, we grow as Christ’s disciples. Evangelism ope