Current Series: ImitateTitle: “Share Your Story” The Word: 1 Peter 3:15, Acts 26, Matthew 4:19. Main Thought: Imitating Jesus is sharing how He has changed your life.

Message Explanation: Jesus calls us to reach people. His first call to Peter and Andrew was in Matthew 4:19, “Jesus called out to them, “Come, follow me, and I will show you how to fish for people!”

Many people stand at the shore and watch. They never bait the hook or prepare the reel. We simply strike a good Christian “pose” and continue watching those who are lost go through life just that…lost. Your story is the way to help people see Jesus as real in your life.

1 Peter 3:15: “Instead, you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it.”

Tonight we are going to look at how Paul the apostle shared his story to King Agrippa. Paul’s testimony in Acts 26 is a biblical model you can follow in writing your own personal story.

Your Story has three parts to it

1) Before I began a relationship with Jesus (v. 4-11)

The purpose of your story is not to just memorize a script but to share the important aspects of your life before Christ. Keep in mind that you do not have to share all of the details of your life. Share the top few areas of life before Christ.

2) How I began a relationship with Jesus (v. 12-20)

Describe the circumstances that caused you to consider Christ as the solution to your life. Talk about what led up to you beginning a relationship with Christ. Paint the picture of that moment that you responded to God’s grace.

3) After I began a relationship with Jesus this is how He is changing my life. (v. 21-29)

Explain how different your life is now in comparison before you met Jesus. Share a few specific areas of your life that you are different.

Imitators of Jesus influence others with Jesus. Be courageous enough to share your story and connect it to God’s Story.

Element of Fun: The middle school students played a game called, “Make it or Break it.” It is a video driven game that each grade competes each week for this series!

Music: Running, Relentless, Your Presence is Heaven to Me, Set a Fire.

Favorite Moment: Students in each service responding to the gospel! We had at least 6 students respond!

What’s Next: We will finish the series, “Imitate” as we talk about worship as a lifestyle.

To watch any of the series messages, check out the vimeo page