The Passion

Sharing Christ with Friends Who Have Seen the Film

With the nationwide release of The Passion of the Christ, many Christians will be confronted with new opportunities to share their faith. Both the apostles Peter and Paul taught the early Christians to be effective witnesses by being responsive to nonbelievers. Peter wrote, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15, NIV). Paul wrote: “Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Colossians 4:5,6, NASB).

Many times the most important part of effective witnessing is listening. After a nonbelieving friend has viewed The Passion, engage them in a conversation about the film. First ask, “What did you think?” Their response to this simple question will likely reveal how much they understand about Jesus and His saving work. Second ask, “How did you feel?” Their answer to this question can give you a sense of how the Holy Spirit is dealing with them. Let people talk…and listen carefully! The conversation can lead to two even more important questions:

  • Who was Jesus?
  • Why did He give his life?

Who was Jesus?

He was much more than just a teacher and prophet. He was God in human form.

Jesus…

  • lived a sinless life
  • sacrificed His life for our sins
  • conquered death by rising to life again…

Why did He give His life?

The Jews and the Romans cannot be blamed for Jesus’ death. His life was not taken from Him. He gave it. Each of us has sinned and is separated from God. Jesus, who never sinned, was put to death to pay the penalty for our sins. Death had no power over Him, and He came back to life after three days. Now He offers us…

  • forgiveness of sin
  • abundant and everlasting life

A Plan of Action

  • Pray for specific people who will attend the film.
  • Ask them about what they think and how they feel.
  • Talk about who Jesus was and why He gave His life.
  • Pray for wisdom and grace in your relationships with them
  • Trust the Holy Spirit to work in the person’s life.

©2004 Assemblies of God Commission on Evangelism—duplication encouraged for free distribution.

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