Sometimes we get the idea that it is of no use to try to initiate a conversation about Jesus with someone we have just met. We have come to believe that we need to develop a long-term relationship with someone before having such a conversation. While developing relationships in order to share the gospel is something we should strive for, let’s not dismiss the value of a meaningful conversation with someone we have just met.

Most of the people in the crowd on the day of Pentecost had never met the apostles, but about 3,000 of them accepted the gospel message that was preached. The woman that Jesus encountered at the well in John 4 was receptive to the words of this person she had just met. The Philippian jailor believed and obeyed the instructions he received from Paul and Silas, even though he did not know them well.

So let’s not be afraid to initiate conversations about Jesus with people we have just met. This method of evangelism has been known to actually work!

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.”—Colossians 4:5