TMI

Most people love a good story, whether it’s fiction or nonfiction. At the same time, however, many of them would prefer you to leave out some of the details (especially if they make them feel uncomfortable). “Too much information!” they protest, as they cover their ears.

But what about when it comes to the gospel story? Today, it seems like everyone wants to hear about Christ’s love for mankind, but few care to hear about His condemnation of sin. Apparently not much has changed. About 2000 years ago, Jesus declared, “If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin” (John 15:22).

Remember Stephen? The book of Acts records that, in the midst of the high priest and other devout Jews, he told the story of Jesus beginning with God’s promise to Abraham to make him the father of many nations. Before concluding, he shared some details that the Jews didn’t want to hear. He told them that they were responsible for the betrayal and murder of Christ. In response, they covered their ears, rushed toward him, and stoned him to death.

Stephen could have saved his own life if he hadn’t given the Jews too much information, but who knows how many souls he reached by his boldness to share the gospel? In the same way, how many of our friends and neighbors can we influence with the saving truth of God’s Word?

Matthew 5:11-12 tells us, “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” When it comes to sharing the story of Christ with the lost, tell them lovingly, but don’t spare any details.