First Step

Q. Dear Rachel,
What’s the first step in talking to someone about becoming a Christian?
-Anonymous

The number of people taken in by atheism and false teaching is increasing exponentially, making this a very popular question among teens. We love our friends, and so, naturally, we are concerned for their spiritual well-being. One of the hardest things we must do in our Christian lives is find the courage to talk to a friend about Christ. What if they don’t listen? What if they get annoyed and don’t want to be our friend anymore? However, even more frightening than these thoughts is the possibility that your friend might be going to hell. Any time I think of my non-Christian friends, I am saddened to think that they won’t be spending eternity joyfully praising God in heaven, but instead will be suffering through everlasting torment. It is also important to remember that we will one day have to give an answer to God about why we never tried to teach them. “So then each of us will give an account of himself to God” (Romans 14:12). There is no reasonable excuse for not sharing the gospel with our friends.

Once you have made up your mind that you are going to talk to your friend, you must first study the topic for yourself. We are commanded in 1 Peter 3:15 to “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.” Study the topic before beginning a study with a friend. It is impossible to know what they will ask you, and it will make a much better impression on them if you can use God’s word in your discussion. If you do not know the answer to one of their questions, don’t just say, “I don’t know.” Instead, tell them you’re not sure and that you will look it up and get back to them as soon as possible; or study it together. You might also want to research the religion of your friend, if they practice one. This will help to prepare you to tackle any difficult issues they may throw at you. If you need help researching, you might want to visit your church library, ask your preacher or a mature Christian, or Contact Us and we would be happy to answer your question as best we can.

It’s difficult to determine where to begin when you are ready to speak to your friend. It may be best to begin in the gospel, with Jesus’ death on the cross, and His resurrection. Explain that we are sinners in need of salvation. Once they understand its importance, you might then want to explain the plan of salvation as the way to obey God and gain eternal salvation. In order to enter heaven, one must obey God’s Word. (Mark 16:16, Acts 2:38, Acts 22:16, 1 Peter 3:21). If your friend puts priority on traditions or family beliefs instead of leaning on the Bible and God as the only authority, you may wish to begin with biblical authority. If the person you are trying to convert is an atheist, you may want to start with a study of Christian evidences. There is a considerable amount of scientific evidence that supports Christianity, just as there are verses in the Bible that support modern scientific beliefs. If you need help finding information on this topic, let us know, and we can supply you with information!

If your friend is receptive, you may want to suggest beginning a weekly Bible study and invite them to attend church with you. If your friend is comfortable with the idea, you may ask your youth minister or preacher to be present at these devotionals to answer the questions you cannot. Their presence would also provide your friend with additional acquaintances from your church, making them more relaxed with attending. Good luck!

– Rachel