Scripture provides teaching, supported by examples, concerning when believers should witness, the methods they are to use, and the manner of doing it.
When and where to witness
In the home and family
Mark 5:18–19 parallel Luke 8:38–39 See also 2 Kings 5:1–3; John 1:41
As He was getting into the boat, the man who had been possessed by the demons begged to go with Him. But Jesus would not allow him. “Go home to your own people,” He said, “and tell them how much the Lord has done for you, and what mercy He has shown you.”
To individuals
John 1:40–42 See also John 4:7–26; Acts 8:30–35
Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, was one of the two who heard John’s testimony and followed Jesus. He first found his brother Simon and told him, “We have found the Messiah” (which is translated as Christ). Andrew brought him to Jesus, who looked at him and said, “You are Simon son of John. You will be called Cephas” (which is translated as Peter).
To assembled groups
Acts 17:17 See also Acts 5:42, Acts 16:13, Acts 19:8–9
So he reasoned in the synagogue with the Jews and God-fearing Gentiles, and in the marketplace with those he met each day.
Methods of witnessing
Sharing personal testimony
John 4:29 See also Acts 22:3–8 Paul uses the account of his conversion in witnessing.
“Come, see a man who told me everything I ever did. Could this be the Christ?”
Explaining the Scriptures
Acts 8:30–35 See also Isaiah 53:7–8; Psalm 119:172; Acts 17:1–3, Acts 17:10–12
So Philip ran up and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked. “How can I,” he said, “unless someone guides me?” And he invited Philip to come up and sit with him. The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so He did not open His mouth. In His humiliation He was deprived of justice. Who can recount His descendants? For His life was removed from the earth.” “Tell me,” said the eunuch, “who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” Then Philip began with this very Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.
Using prophetic gifts
But if an unbeliever or uninstructed person comes in while everyone is prophesying, he will be convicted and called to account by all, and the secrets of his heart will be made known. So he will fall facedown and worship God, proclaiming, “God is truly among you!”
Answering questions
Colossians 4:6 See also John 9:8–11, John 9:15–17, John 9:24–25; 1 Peter 3:15
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.
Through writing
John 20:31 See also Luke 1:1–4
But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in His name.
Through holy living
Matthew 5:16 See also 1 Peter 3:1–2
In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.
Through acts of devotion
Matthew 26:6–7 parallel Mark 14:3 See also Luke 7:36–38; John 12:1–3
While Jesus was in Bethany in the home of Simon the Leper, a woman came to Him with an alabaster jar of expensive perfume, which she poured on His head as He reclined at the table.
The manner of witnessing
With love
Mark 10:21 See also Philippians 1:15–17
Jesus looked at him, loved him, and said to him, “There is one thing you lack: Go, sell everything you own and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.”
With urgency
2 Corinthians 5:20 See also Ezekiel 33:7–9
Therefore we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God were making His appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ: Be reconciled to God.
Fearlessly
Ephesians 6:19–20 See also Acts 4:29
Pray also for me, that whenever I open my mouth, words may be given me so that I will boldly make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it fearlessly, as I should.
Clearly and courteously
1 Peter 3:15 See also Acts 26:1–3; Colossians 4:4–6
But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give a defense to everyone who asks you the reason for the hope that is in you. But respond with gentleness and respect,
Related themes
Dictionary of Bible Themes © 1999 Martin Manser, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0, via Bible Aquifer. Formatted for this site, with Scripture from the Berean Standard Bible.