This month our focus is on personal evangelism. It is vital for every believer to not only understand the Gospel but be able to share what they believe with others. This month's assignment will have each group member prepare and share a gospel presentation. The presentation will stretch them as they think through their salvation story and stretch them to present in front of a group. 

Leader Guide 

• Most people will be nervous about standing up in front of a group. Be very encouraging. We want them to take this exercise and build on it. For many, this is the first time they have shared the Gospel. Make this a confidence builder.  

• Make sure everyone can present the basic bridge illustration. If you feel they don't grasp the Gospel well, take some time during the month to work on it.

• After each person shares the gospel, have the other members as a question for the person to answer. Again, don't stress them out or make them feel bad. This will help them think on their feet and beyond their presentation. I have had guys who memorized a speech but didn't understand the terms or concepts he was talking about. This will help everyone in the room process the gospel message at a deeper level.

• This assignment may bring up a lot of questions about salvation or terms. Be prepared but don't be afraid to say, "I don't know." If you don't know, research or reach out for help before the next meeting.

• Group Exercise (if time allows) - Have the group try to explain the Gospel in 5 words. Have everyone take a moment and brainstorm their five words and then have everyone share. (Words like grace, forgiveness, and love - not a 5-word phrase) Then have them come up with five phrases and five verses that best explain the Gospel. This exercise will help them process the gospel presentation and to see it from multiple viewpoints.

Get Strong Bible Reading Plan – Talking Points 

• Ephesians 1 - What does it say about our identity in Christ?

• Ephesians 5:21-33 - This is a great passage on marriage. How do we fulfill this command to Love and Respect each other?

• Philippians is referred to as the book of Joy. Discuss how being content in all circumstances leads to Joy (Phil 4:11-12). Remember that Paul was in prison when he wrote this letter.

• Colossians 3 lists worldly things to take off and Godly things to put on. List something in each area you need to work on.

• 1 John 5:13 speaks about assurance. Look for truths in the book that point to assurance (look for "born of God" or "we know").

Book Recommendations: Gospel

1) What is the Gospel by Greg Gilbert. What is the gospel? It seems like a simple question, yet it has been known to incite some heated responses, even in the church. This book will help you formulate a clear, biblical understanding of the gospel.

2) Turning Everyday Conversations into Gospel Conversations (3 Circles) by Jimmy Scroggins. This is a simple strategy to train new and seasoned believers to use the innovative "3 Circles," a user-friendly evangelistic tool for a new generation

3) The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E. Coleman. For more than forty years, this classic study has challenged and instructed more than 1.5 million readers in reaching the world for Christ. 

4) Christian Beliefs: Twenty Basics Every Christian Should Know by Wayne Grudem. Not every Christian needs to go to seminary, but there are certain teachings of the Bible that every Christian should know.