Jesus tells us to be a fisher of men and that is probably one of the most important tasks he has charged us with as followers of Christ. But what is the best way to go about this?

First, make it known you are a Christian. This conversation will have to happen eventually regardless, so if it precedes the relationship there is chance of a mistaken intention.

Second, act differently. This is where they don’t conform to the ways of the world verse in Romans 12:1-2 really comes into play. As followers of Christ we are not only supposed to act differently, but we are also called to share the wonders of God. I’ve had many of my peers ask me why I act differently and then I get to tell them that I’m a Christian and about the wonders of God.

Third, invest time in the person. Hannah Daily started bringing her friend Caroline to church in elementary school and invested time in their relationship. Now Caroline is a youth apprentice this summer where part of her job is discipling others and planting seeds of the gospel.

Fourth, if someone is not receptive don’t count it as a loss. Luke 8:1-15 explains that not all seed will fall on good soil. The best we can do is to speak the gospel and hope that the people are ready to listen. “That is why we labor and strive, because we have put our hope in the living God, who is the Savior of all people, and especially those who believe.” 1 Timothy 4:10

This Summer I worked as the Hispanic ministry apprentice and I was blessed with the opportunity to become friends with the girls in the Hispanic ministry and see them grow and mature. They have taught me so much just showing that discipleship truly is a two way street.