Coffee Devo | Go & Tell: Sharing the Gospel with Honesty and Trust

Welcome to another edition of Coffee Devo, where we take a moment to slow down, reflect, and talk honestly about following Jesus in everyday life. Today’s conversation comes from Kyoto Congregational Church in Jamestown, New York, featuring insights from Pastor Jim and Steve, a recent attendee of the Go & Tell Evangelism Workshop. Whether you’re a new believer or someone who’s been walking with Christ for years, this is a timely reminder: sharing the gospel isn’t about pressure – it’s about truth, trust, and transformation. Honest Conversations: What Evangelism Really Means Evangelism isn’t always easy. Sometimes, when we witness to others, we get so eager for them to accept Jesus that we rush through vital steps. Here’s how Steve explained his biggest takeaway from the recent workshop: “The main thing that convicted me today was when we’re witnessing to others and trying to lead them to Christ that sometimes we are trying to force people into saying the salvation prayer instead of letting them realize that they need to see their sin for what it is first so they realize why they’re repenting and wanting to accept Jesus in their life.” This is an honest moment many of us can relate to. If we’re not careful, evangelism can turn into a checklist – rather than a personal journey, where each person feels the weight of their decision and truly understands the grace that God offers. Letting the Holy Spirit Work: Why We Can’t Force Salvation Here’s some truth – no matter how clear we are, or how good our intentions, we can’t transform someone’s heart on our own. Pastor Jim reminds us: “We are called to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed. But also the Holy Spirit is called to convict, to lead people to repentance of their sin, to open up their ears, to hear their mouth, to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” It takes both our willingness to share, and the Holy Spirit’s power to open eyes and soften hearts. Three Things the Holy Spirit Does: If you’ve ever tried to lead a friend or a stranger through a gospel conversation and felt pressure to see “results,” you’re not alone. Good news: It’s not on us to save people. Our job is to tell our story and God’s story. The rest? That’s in God’s hands. Try These Simple Steps in Your Next Gospel Conversation: The Gospel Breaks Through in Word and Deed It’s pretty simple. We are called – everyday, in whatever place God puts us, to “go and tell.” That doesn’t just mean sharing a gospel track or a quick prayer and moving on. It’s how we live. It’s how we love people honestly. “Church. We need to go and tell. Let’s share the gospel of Jesus Christ and make disciples.” What does this look like? Evangelism is not an event – it’s a lifestyle. Jesus’ Example: Compassion Comes Before Conversion In John 4, when Jesus meets the woman at the well, He doesn’t rush the conversation. He engages her, listens, and reveals truth with compassion. He doesn’t manipulate the moment – He ministers within it. Let’s follow His example: For Every Believer, Not Just Leaders This message isn’t just for those with the “gift” of evangelism or for pastors behind a pulpit. It’s for every follower of Jesus. Our neighborhoods, schools, and workplaces are full of people searching for hope. Why We Struggle With Evangelism Let’s be honest: But God uses ordinary conversations to do extraordinary things. If you keep showing up, listening, and speaking about the difference Jesus makes, He’ll use you. What NOT to Do: Avoiding “Forced” Faith Steve’s insight is crucial. When we lean on formulas or try to “close the deal,” people may say yes, but don’t really understand what they’re saying yes to. That isn’t saving faith. Instead, aim for: Key Scriptures for Honest Evangelism Let’s root this approach in the Word: “We are called to share the gospel of Jesus Christ in word and deed. But also the Holy Spirit is called to convict…to open up their ears…to confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” Being Part of Someone’s Story Not every conversation leads to immediate transformation, and that’s okay. Sometimes you’re planting a seed. Other times, you’re watering one already planted. Either way, your role matters. Remember: Take the Next Step You don’t need to have all the answers to begin. Start small: You are called to go and tell.