Two books have influenced how I’m thinking about living life as a Christian. The first book, unchristian (Kinnaman, 2007), addresses how “outsiders” view Christianity and Making Disciples: One Conversation at a Time (Henderson, 2007) which gives practical suggestions for sharing our faith.
   
unChristian is many ways was disconcerting as I gained insights into how “outsiders” view Christians and Christianity.  First, outsiders are people outside the Christian faith and include atheists, agnostics, those affiliated with a faith other than Christianity, and other unchurched adults who are not born-again Christians (p. 17). People in this group see Christians as judgmental and harsh. One outsider said, “Most people I meet assume that Christian means very conservative, entrenched in their thinking, antigay, anti-choice, angry, violent, illogical, empire builders; they want to convert everyone, and they generally cannot live peacefully with anyone who doesn’t believe what they believe” (p. 26).
   
Making Disciples, on the other hand, encourages Christian to love and build relationships with the outsiders. The first century church was built as Christians shared their faith with friends, relatives, and co-workers. Henderson suggests that today’s Church will be built the same way.
   
Think about it—the basic element of Christianity is a relationship with Jesus Christ, declaring our commitment to becoming His disciple. Henderson reminds us that disciples are simply followers of Jesus. He further explains that making disciples is helping our friends to follow Jesus, one intimate conversation at a time.
   
Here are some suggestions for starting those conversations.

1. Teach friends to learn from the Holy Spirit. We aren’t the teachers, just friends.
2. Help friends to follow Jesus by encouraging them to put into practice His teachings. This often requires an investment of time, energy, and resources. We do this for things we deem essential to life. What is of more importance than our relationship with Jesus Christ?
3. Disciples grew in their spiritual lives in context of personal friendships. Accountability is a key factor. Who are your accountability partners? Who challenges your behaviors, strengths, and weaknesses?
4. Have a clear goal for each conversation. Henderson suggests these include shared information to achieve the goal, strengthening the relationships, and agreeing on the next step.

   
Women’s Ministries typically has many offerings that create an environment conducive to relationship building and conversations. With just a few adjustments, our gatherings can become great conversation opportunities. Let’s start really talking.