Podcast Show Notes: The Find Five List – How & Why

Episode Overview

In this episode, we’re diving into the concept of the Find Five List: a simple, intentional approach to sharing the Gospel through relational evangelism. You'll learn:

• How to identify five people in your life who need Jesus.
• Why relational evangelism is key to meaningful Gospel conversations.
• Practical steps to strengthen relationships, pray, and share the Good News effectively.

What Is the Find Five List?

The Find Five List is a strategy for evangelism where you:

1. Make a list of five people in your sphere of influence who need Jesus.
2. Strategically strengthen your relationships with them.
3. All the while:

• Knowing Jesus intimately.
• Showing Him effectively through your life.
• Praying for opportunities to share the Gospel.

Relational Evangelism: The Premise and Purpose

Relational evangelism is about taking the most important message in the world—the Gospel—and sharing it in the context of genuine, heartfelt relationships. Here’s why it matters:

• When people know you care about them, they’re more open to listening.
• Not everyone will share the Gospel with hundreds, but everyone can share it with one friend, one neighbor, or one coworker.
• Building deep relationships by loving, spending time with, and connecting on a soul level opens doors for Gospel conversations.

Who’s on Your List?

Identify people in these categories that God may be calling you to reach:

• Friends & Family: Often the hardest but most impactful relationships.
• Associates & Acquaintances: Coworkers, teammates, or people in your clubs or volunteer organizations.
• Neighbors: People you interact with daily—at the gym, coffee shop, or even Walmart.
• Strangers: People God places in your life unexpectedly—start noticing and praying for opportunities!

Broadening Your Horizons

Think of your sphere of influence as a “target-rich environment” for sharing the Gospel. Imagine a map of your city with lights representing your church members. Now visualize those lights moving into everyday spaces—schools, stores, workplaces. This is what Jesus meant when He called us the Light of the World.

By identifying and strengthening relationships within your unique sphere of influence, you’ll bring that light into the lives of those who need it most.

The Exchange Bible Study

Looking for a relational tool to share the Gospel? The Exchange Bible Study is one of the best resources available to guide meaningful, faith-filled conversations.

Closing Thought

A recent Wall Street Journal article revealed that Bible sales in the U.S. are up 22%, signaling a growing spiritual hunger. As followers of Christ, let’s meet that hunger with intentionality and love, starting with our Find Five List.

Action Steps

• Create your Find Five List.
• Pray daily for those on your list.
• Strategically strengthen those relationships.
• Share the Gospel when God provides the opportunity.

Connect With Us

Got questions about the Find Five List or relational evangelism? Reach out—we’d love to hear your story!

In this episode of Gospel Talks, we explore the persistent and gentle nature of Jesus as portrayed in Revelation 3:20. Jesus patiently knocks on the doors of our hearts, offering fellowship to those who open to Him. But He doesn’t force His way in—He waits, even when we resist or misunderstand.

Whether someone doubts God's existence, disagrees with the Bible, or hesitates to commit to what they know to be true, Jesus remains persistent, never leaving but always gently inviting.

We also discuss how we, as followers of Christ, can model His persistence and gentleness in our conversations about faith. Drawing from 2 Timothy 2:24-26, we highlight the importance of kindness, patient teaching, and confidence in God's power to lead others to repentance and freedom.

Summary:

• Jesus knocks, but He doesn't push (Revelation 3:20).
• His persistence is evident even when:
• People don’t believe in Him.
• They misunderstand or disagree with Scripture or Bible studies like The Exchange.
• They understand but are not ready or willing to commit.
• We are called to emulate Jesus’ approach:
• Be kind, patient, and gentle (2 Timothy 2:24-25).
• Trust that God can bring others to repentance and truth (2 Timothy 2:25-26).
• Carry an urgency to help others escape the snares of sin and the devil.

Tune in for practical insights on navigating faith conversations with gentleness and persistence, just like Jesus.

Episode Overview:

In this episode, we explore the profound truth that the Great Commission is not reserved for a select few but is the mission of every believer. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, every follower of Christ has been strategically placed and commissioned to share the Gospel. We dive into practical applications, biblical truths, and real-life stories that will encourage and equip you to step out in faith and see God do extraordinary things through your ordinary life.

Key Takeaways:

1. Every Believer is Indwelt by the Holy Spirit

• John 14:16-17 - The Holy Spirit dwells within every believer, enabling and empowering us to fulfill God’s mission.
• John 15:5 - Abiding in Christ is the key to bearing fruit. Apart from Him, we can do nothing.
• 1 Corinthians 6:19 - Our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, reminding us of our divine purpose and calling.

1. Practical Application of the Spirit’s Indwelling

• 1 Peter 2:4-5, 9 - We are living stones being built into a spiritual house to proclaim the excellencies of Christ. Without the Spirit, this task is impossible; with Him, it is imperative.
• Living out the Great Commission begins with yielding to the Spirit’s leading in everyday life.

1. Every Believer is Surrounded by People

• God has sovereignly placed us in our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities to reach those around us.
• Real-life example: Tara and Joel in Houston, who are building relationships with their Catholic and Muslim neighbors, showing how intentional connections can open doors for the Gospel.

1. Every Believer is Commissioned

• The Great Commission is not a suggestion—it is a command to every believer (Matthew 28:18-20).
• His Promise: Jesus assures us of His presence, saying, "I am with you always, to the end of the age."

1. Gifts and Comparisons

• While some may have the gift of evangelism, every believer is called to share their faith.
• 2 Corinthians 10:12 - Avoid the trap of comparison; focus on the unique role God has given you.

Encouragement:

“When ordinary people take steps of faith, God does extraordinary things.” – Anna Musgrave

Practical Next Steps:

• Reflect on where God has placed you and who He has surrounded you with.
• Pray for opportunities and courage to share Christ with those in your sphere of influence.
• Rely on the Holy Spirit, trusting His power to work through you.

Promo:

Check out Living the Exchange for more resources to equip you in living out your faith and sharing the Gospel in your everyday life.

Closing Thought:

The Great Commission is for everyone. God is ready to use your willingness and His Spirit to accomplish His extraordinary purposes. Will you take the next step of faith today?