What’s Your Story?

So, what’s your story?  In Acts 22, Paul gives his testimony – the reason for his hope – to a crowd that had just tried to beat him to death.  And you could hear a pin drop while he talked. 

Something powerful happens when we set aside all the academics, the church words, and the quoting-somebody-else, and just share our own personal story with someone who is seeking Christ.  People want to know:  Is this real?  How are you different? 

In his first letter to believers scattered everywhere, Peter addresses their fears and insecurities about admitting they are believers.  Here’s what he writes in I Peter 3:13-17:

“Who then will harm you if you are devoted to what is good? But even if you should suffer for righteousness, you are blessed. Do not fear them or be intimidated, but in your hearts regard Christ the Lord as holy, ready at any time to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. Yet do this with gentleness and reverence, keeping a clear conscience, so that when you are accused, those who disparage your good conduct in Christ will be put to shame. For it is better to suffer for doing good, if that should be God’s will, than for doing evil.” 

Homework

So, there’s your homework.  If you have never taken the time to write down how you came to Christ – how you were before, how you came to believe, and what you have experienced since – then that is your assignment.  Someone out there needs to hear your story.