Introducing Jesus to unbelievers can be a tricky process that involves open dialogue, empathy, and a willingness to listen.
Here are some steps to consider when sharing the message of Jesus with those who do not believe.
How to Introduce Jesus to Unbelievers
10 things to do to help reach the lost for Christ.
1. Build Relationships
Establish a genuine, caring relationship with the person. If you want someone to listen to you, they first have to know that you genuinely care about them. This process does not happen overnight! Be patient, and take your time. And be genuine. Don’t just “get to know them” so that you can “win them to Jesus” but truly care for them.
This is absolutely essentially for showing someone Jesus!
Think back to how Jesus lived his life on earth. He ate with the “sinners”, tax collectors, etc. He spent time with them and loved them.
2. Listen First
Listen to their beliefs, concerns, and questions. Show empathy and respect for their perspective–even though it will be different from yours. Do not argue with them.
3. Share Your Story
Share your personal testimony of how Jesus has impacted your life. I think the key here, is to let this come up naturally. I can’t help but talk about what Jesus has done in me after a certain amount of time. My faith shapes every aspect of who I am. If I truly have built a relationship/friendship with this person, then they will likely know that Jesus is the lover of my soul.
4. Explain the Gospel
Gospel = good news. So many people do not know what the gospel is! It’s the good news of Jesus Christ, coming to earth as a human, and dying on the cross for your sins. He died, was buried, and rose up again on the 3rd day.
For God so loved the world that he gave his only son, that whoever believes in him will not perish but have eternal life.
John 3:16
Try to keep the message of the gospel simple. Avoid “churchy” terms such as “sacrificial lamb” or “blood of Jesus.” To an unbeliever, this verbiage may just confuse them and make them disinterested in the Gospel.
5. Answer Their Questions
Encourage questions! If you don’t know the answer to a question, it’s okay to say you’ll look it up or seek guidance from someone more knowledgeable. A great resource for understanding the bible is Mike Winger. You can look him up on YouTube—he has many videos that help you think Biblically about everything.
6. Give Resources
Recommend books, articles, or websites that provide more information about Jesus and Christianity. Be very careful of who you are recommending, however. There is a number of teachers out there who do not present the true Gospel.
Some great commentaries include, the Dake’s Study Bible, BlueLetterBible.com, and the Bible Project.
Invite them to join our Facebook group for women— it’s a place to understand the Bible, free devotionals, and support for those wanting to gain growth in their walk with Jesus.
A great thing for new believers is to know where to start reading the bible!
7. Be Respectful and Non-Pressuring:
Respect their right to make their own choices about their faith.
At the end of the day, it is their choice whether or not they want to accept Jesus Christ as their Savior. There is no need to pressure or beg someone—they have to make the choice.
8. Pray for Guidance
Pray for wisdom, discernment, and for the Holy Spirit to work in the person’s heart. Prayer is the most powerful tool in this process!
Pray for them, that they would receive Jesus in their hearts.
9. Demonstrate Christ’s Love
Show the person the love, kindness, and compassion that Jesus taught. Your actions will speak louder than words and can leave a lasting impression.
You never know who you will impact for the Kingdom based on how you treat the people around you.
10. Be Patient
The journey to faith can be a slow process. Be a patient and supportive presence in their life — without pushing.
Your life and character can be a powerful testimony to the message you wish to share.
If you really want to know how to introduce Jesus to unbelievers, being patient is key.
How To Convince a Non Believer to Believe in God
If these other points on check list don’t help your friend believe in God, then unfortunately there is nothing else you can do. However, don’t give up. Stay faithful in prayer for them, believing that they will one day accept Jesus.
That’s one of the beautiful things about salvation, even the thief on the cross next to Jesus as he was crucified joined him in paradise that day.
It’s never too late to accept Christ!
Do you have any tips for how to introduce Jesus to unbelievers? If so, share them below!
