The passion for souls is a central theme in the Bible. This passion stems from the deep love and desire to see people restored to a relationship with God.
1. **God’s Passion for Souls:**
– Ezekiel 33:11: “Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways!'” This verse shows God’s desire for repentance and salvation rather than judgment.
– Luke 15:7: “I tell you that in the same way, there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent.” God’s joy over a repentant sinner reflects His passion for souls.
2. **Jesus’ Passion for Souls:**
– Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” Jesus’ entire mission on Earth was to save souls. He demonstrated this by engaging with tax collectors, sinners, and outcasts, showing His love for all.
– Matthew 9:36: “When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.” Jesus’ compassion for people illustrates His deep concern for their spiritual well-being.
3. **Holy Spirit’s Passion for Souls:**
– John 16:8: “When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment.” The Holy Spirit’s role is to convict hearts and draw people to repentance, showcasing the Spirit’s passion for souls.
– Acts 1:8: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be witnesses, emphasising the Spirit’s desire for souls to be reached.
4. **Disciples’ Passion for Souls:**
– Mark 16:15: “He said to them, ‘Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.'” Jesus’ Great Commission to the disciples demonstrates their responsibility to share the Gospel and their passion for reaching souls.
– Romans 10:1: “Brothers and sisters, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for the Israelites is that they may be saved.” Paul’s heartfelt desire for his fellow Israelites’ salvation exemplifies the disciples’ passion for souls.
This passion continues to inspire true believers to reach out to those who need to experience God’s transforming grace.
Soul winning is a noble endeavour that encompasses both online and on-ground opportunities.
Remember 1 Corinthians 9:22: “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” This verse teaches us to adapt our approach to reach people where they are.
Online, think of social media as a platform for sharing the Gospel. As Romans 10:14 says, “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?” Your digital presence can be a way to share the good news.
On-ground, remember Matthew 5:16: “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Your actions and words can speak volumes. Seize every opportunity to show kindness, empathy, and God’s love in your interactions.
In both cases, prayer is essential. Philippians 4:6 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Seek guidance, strength, and wisdom through prayer as you engage in soul-winning efforts.
Some Practical Steps to Engage in Soul-winning:
1. **Prayer:** Begin with prayer. Seek God’s guidance, wisdom, and compassion as you embark on this journey. Pray for the people you want to reach.
2. **Develop Relationships:** Whether online or on-ground, build genuine relationships. Show love, empathy, and care. Be a good listener and create connections.
3. **Live as an Example:** Let your life reflect your faith. Live out the principles of Christianity in your actions and decisions. People are often drawn to authentic and consistent believers.
4. **Share Your Testimony:** Your personal story of faith can be powerful. Share how your life has been transformed by Christ and how it can apply to others.
5. **Use Scripture:** Appropriately use relevant Bible verses in conversations. Tailor the verses to the person’s situation or concerns.
6. **Answer Questions:** Be prepared to address common questions or misconceptions about Christianity. Study and know the answers to provide clarity.
7. **Invite to Church or Events:** If applicable, invite people to church services, Bible studies, or other events where they can learn more about Christianity.
8. **Share Gospel Resources:** Provide online articles, videos, or books that explain the Gospel message. Offer resources that can help deepen their understanding.
9. **Listen and Understand:** Understand the person’s background, struggles, and beliefs. Tailor your approach to address their specific needs and concerns.
10. **Pray with and for Them:** Offer to pray for the person’s needs and concerns. If they’re comfortable, pray with them. Prayer can be a powerful way to connect them with God.
11. **Be Patient:** Recognize that conversion is a process. Be patient and respectful of their journey. Don’t pressure or rush them into making decisions.
12. **Stay Connected:** Maintain consistent contact, especially if you’re building an online relationship. Regular communication shows that you genuinely care.
13. **Show Grace and Compassion:** Remember that everyone is on their own spiritual journey. Show grace, understanding, and compassion, regardless of where they are.
14. **Lead by Example:** Model Christ-like behaviour in every aspect of your life. Your actions often speak louder than words.
15. **Empower Them to Share:** Encourage them to share their own faith journey with others. Empower them to become soul winners themselves.
Remember, the goal of soul-winning is to plant seeds and let God do the work. Not every encounter will result in immediate conversion, but your efforts can have a lasting impact on someone’s spiritual journey. Trust in God’s timing and continue to be a vessel through which His message can reach others.
The Message Bearer, Cornelius Bella
corneliusbella 