Page 57 - Finding Jesus with Good News report A5 WEB

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The response they’ve had

The responses have been mixed. The majority have
had some really positive responses, yet most have
also had negative ones. On the positive side, some of
their friends, family and colleagues are really happy Everybody around
for them, affirming them and asking questions. me is starting to see
Several shared that people they thought would that difference… I’m
respond badly have actually been very positive. working with people
Amazingly, five of the 20 we interviewed said they I’ve worked with since
had seen at least one of their previously non- I was 19, and I’m 37
Christian contacts become Christians! now. And they’re like,
‘You’re the last person
At the same time, most participants shared
I would have seen
examples of people who haven’t been positive.
coming to Christ.’ But
Sometimes they made it clear that they weren’t too
the fact that they’re
enthusiastic about their friend or family member
seeing changes in me,
finding faith but were respectful. Others shared
and every second word
that the disapproval they received was expressed
that comes out of my
much less kindly. Some have had friends or family
mouth, and I used to
try to change their minds, or see their conversion
swear a lot as well…
as “just a phase” that they were expected to
They’ve seen that I
abandon. Several described being mocked,
was unhinged before,
experiencing antagonism and even exclusion from
and now I’m calm and
friendship groups.
collected.”
Seeing the change
As well as sharing their faith, these new Christians
are also showing it through lifestyle and character
change. Many described how those around them
had seen a dramatic change take place. Examples
include staying calm during conflict, overcoming
bad habits, and generally being happier and more
at peace.
There is scope for the church not just to support
but to actively help and encourage new adult
Christians to share their faith. These are adults who
probably have a wide network of non-Christian
relationships. Their reach for the gospel is likely to
be far greater than those who are established and
embedded in church communities.

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