Raising the Evangelistic Temperature in Your Church
Every pastor wants a church where people naturally share Christ—but most congregations run cooler than they should.
The Jesus Story Project is a simple but powerful way to change that.
By creating space for people to share how they came to know Christ—what their life was like before, how they trusted Him, and what has changed since —you’re not just hosting a discussion. You’re shaping a culture.
Why This Works
1. It’s deeply biblical
From the blind man in John 9 to Paul’s repeated testimony in Acts, God uses personal stories to advance the gospel. Testimony doesn’t replace the gospel—it carries it through real lives.
2. It clarifies the gospel in your church
When people explain why Jesus is their hope for heaven, gaps show up. That’s not a problem—it’s discipleship. This process surfaces confusion and gives you a natural opportunity to reinforce salvation by grace through faith.
3. It builds confidence in everyday believers
Most people don’t share their faith because they feel unqualified. But when they hear multiple stories of how people came to Christ, they realize something important:
God uses ordinary people in ordinary conversations to do extraordinary work.
That’s the shift—from “I can’t do that” to “God could use me.”
4. It strengthens the spiritual fabric of the church
When people share their stories, relationships deepen fast. Authenticity increases. Unity strengthens. And a connected church is far more effective on mission.
5. It reignites urgency
Hearing story after story of God’s saving work brings back gratitude—and gratitude fuels evangelism. People are reminded what’s at stake and why it matters.
The Practical Benefits
If you want to raise the evangelistic temperature in your church, don’t start with a program.
Start with your people learning to clearly and confidently say:
“Here’s what Jesus has done in my life.”
When that becomes normal, evangelism stops being an occasional event and becomes part of your church’s DNA.
And that’s when you start seeing real movement.
Download “The Jesus Story Project” Guide

Bob Bickford
Executive Director
Nashville Baptist Association
