Questions & Answers

I understand your hesitation in witnessing in this case. You know your friend needs to hear of Jesus his Savior, but you feel awkward because the nature of your relationship has you looking up to your friend as if he were your big brother. Sometimes these are difficult witnessing situations because we feel we have no right to "show a thing or two" to someone who is older and possibly more mature.

First I would suggest you rethink the attitude with which you will approach your friend. If "taking charge" with someone who is older than you makes you uncomfortable, then resolve not to think of these situations as "taking charge," but rather the natural give and take of conversation that takes place in friendship. Because this man is your friend, you will have opportunity to testify to Christ over an extended period of time. Try not to think of the age difference. Focus on the mutual respect you have for each other as friends. Focus also on the best gift you can give your friend, namely, your testimony of the Savior.

Many Christian witnesses have found an opening to speaking about spiritual things with friends as they bring up the word "relationship." Perhaps that word could serve as a beginning point for your witness too. What follows is a broad example of what you might say to get into a witnessing opportunity.

"It seems like we always have a good time. I'm thankful for the way we can talk to each other. But there's a relationship in my life that's even better. That's my relationship with God. How about you? Have you ever thought about your relationship with God?"