Introduction: Today we survey the book of Acts to see some situations where the Gospel was shared and how we might find similar situations in our lives that can lead to sharing the Gospel if we are intentional about it. Gospel Encounters With… • Religious People – Direct the conversation toward eternal life and whether or not they know they have it. • Close Friends or Family – Try a direct and compassionate approach that avoids any hint of judgement. • Seekers – Consider what they are seeking and where they are looking. If you can help them find what they are looking for then do it but above all, find a way to direct them to the most important thing they can ever look for, eternal life? • The Atheists – Don’t argue with them but ask them what they understand to be the way a person can go to heaven according to the Bible or Christianity. Application • Consider the religious people you know in your life and the conversations you have with them. Prayerfully consider how you can direct the conversation to the most important issue of whether or not they know for certain they are going to heaven. • Consider your attitude and actions. Is there anything that might put a stumbling block in front of others? If there is some sin in your life, seek repentance and help to overcome it. • Consider those close to you in your life who know you well. How can you directly and with a heart of compassion (not judgement) approach them to share the Gospel? • Have you encountered any seekers in the past? Consider how you might have directed the conversation to the truth of eternal life in Jesus? Do you know of anyone in your life now that is seeking truth or peace or direction or rescue from some trouble in life? How can you direct them towards the most important thing they will ever find, eternal life? When Charles Peace (an atheist convicted of murder) was being escorted to the gallows, he was accompanied by a clergyman reading about the unquenchable flames of hell. Incredibly, Peace turned to the chaplain and exclaimed: "Sir, if I believed what you and the church of God say that you believe, even if England were covered with broken glass from coast to coast, I would walk over it, if need be, on hands and knees and think it worthwhile living, just to save one soul from an eternal hell like that!”