“As Christians, we must be evangelizing to our friends, neighbors and co-workers,” I’d hear the pastor or evangelist say. And I would usually nod in agreement, along with much of the congregation. But, honestly, if asked, I couldn’t give you the definition of “evangelism.”

Was my pastor challenging us to travel from city to city, preaching the Word of God? Was he saying we needed to be calling people to repentance on street corners or handing out gospel tracts wherever we went? 

Although the word itself has a somewhat simple definition, what it means for Christians like us to understand and apply it involves much more. 

What is evangelism?

There are many definitions of the word “evangelism” out there, and most of them sound similar to one another. Personally, I like how simply Christianity.com puts it in this article: 

Before diving deeper into the definition of evangelism, it’s important to understand what the gospel is. The word “gospel” means “good news,” and that’s what we’re sharing when we evangelize—the good news that Jesus came to the world to restore our relationship with God. 

Like many words common to the Christian faith, the root of the word “evangelism” comes from the Greek language. An article by Ligonier sums it up well: “[Evangelism] comes from the same Greek word for gospel (euangelion) and means, literally, ‘gospeling.’ When we evangelize, we are ‘gospeling’—we are spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.” 

This video sums up the topic of evangelism very well:

What does the Bible say about evangelism? 

Naturally, God’s Word has a lot to say about evangelism. From the beginning, the Bible paints a clear picture: God is on a mission to redeem the world, and He invites His people to participate. Evangelism is not a modern church invention—it was rooted in God’s plan from the start. 

God’s Word is full of examples of people sharing the message of hope in Jesus. The Old Testament contains many biblical prophecies announcing the coming of the Messiah, the One who would restore mankind’s relationship with God after sin entered the world. And when this Messiah, Jesus, does come to the world, people proclaim Him throughout the New Testament. 

Here are just a few places in the New Testament where the Bible talks about evangelism: 

• John 4:28-42 – After her life-changing encounter with Jesus at the well, the Samaritan woman rushes back to her village to tell others. Her testimony leads many to believe in Him, and to seek Him out themselves. She models a natural, heartfelt response to encountering Christ: “Come and see a man who told me everything I ever did.”

• Acts 1:8 – Before ascending to heaven, Jesus commissions His disciples with these words: “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem… and to the ends of the earth.” This verse encourages and inspires Christians towards global evangelism. 

• 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 – The apostle Paul shares the method he adopted in order to  reach as many as possible. “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” His approach to sharing the gospel was to be as relatable as he could to those he was preaching to so that he could reach them. Paul’s example reminds us that evangelism may take different forms, but the goal remains the same—pointing people to Jesus.

Three modes of evangelism: 

Not all evangelism looks the same. Sometimes we share our faith with someone close to us. Other times, we have the chance to share the gospel with strangers. And often, the way we live in Christian community can speak volumes. 

In Modes of Evangelism, an evangelism resource from Cru, Keith Davy shares three ways Christians can be witnesses of Christ’s love. These are not step-by-step methods, but perspectives that help us see how God works through us to reach the world with His good news. 

Whichever mode of evangelism you find yourself participating in, God can use you to bring the hope of Jesus to others. These modes are not stand-alone—they often overlap with each other. The key is to be available to share the gospel and to trust that God can and will work through you to draw people to Himself. 

Who should evangelize?

The church I attended as a child and into young adulthood placed a strong emphasis on missions, particularly foreign missions. I recall joyfully participating in several giving campaigns every year to support missionaries and mission projects in countries with limited access to the gospel. I would listen to these missionaries with a sense of wonder. I remember thinking how special they must be for God to have chosen them to preach His Word across the world. 

In that setting, it’s easy to assume that evangelizing is for “those people”—the ones God calls to evangelism through some significant or miraculous experience. But evangelism is not just for those who have had a special or unique “calling” experience. Evangelism is something every follower of Jesus is called to. 

In Matthew 28:18-20, Jesus gives one last commandment to His followers, urging them to “go and make disciples of all nations…” This command, often called the Great Commission, was a command to those who heard it for themselves and to those of us who read His words centuries later. 

If we call ourselves Christians, we must follow Jesus’ commands, and that includes His command to make more Jesus-followers. That means you and I, and everyone else who calls Jesus Lord, are called to actively evangelize.

How do I evangelize?

Now that we understand that it is our mission to evangelize, what comes next? Do we head to the nearest street corner and begin loudly proclaiming the gospel? Do we buy a pack of gospel tracts and begin leaving them around for people to find? Do we hold a prayer meeting with a call to repentance in our office breakrooms? 

There are a few ways you can begin to engage in evangelism if you have never done it before. My advice? Start small. While you may find the courage to preach to a large crowd about Jesus right now, it’s more likely—and more realistic—to begin with those around you. Let’s take a look at some ways you can start evangelizing now: 

No matter how we choose to begin, whether it’s with a friend, an invitation to church or through a post online, what matters most is our willingness to share. At the heart of evangelism is our love for Jesus and a desire for others to know Him too. 

Why is it hard to evangelize? 

Evangelism can be challenging for several reasons. Opening up about our faith can feel deeply personal, and introducing such a vulnerable topic can be hard even with trusted friends. Fear of rejection is also a big reason many Christians do not open up about their faith. 

There are also outside factors that make evangelism difficult, such as language barriers, cultural differences, and in some places, even laws against sharing the gospel. 

If you find it difficult to evangelize, you are not alone. Many people find the idea of sharing their faith in Jesus pretty nerve-wracking, while others have no problem doing so. I tend to find myself in the first category, nervous even at the thought of talking to someone about Jesus. 

When I experience this, I have to remind myself that God does not ask me to be eloquent or to speak perfectly. I don’t need to be well-versed in theological debate. It’s not up to me to change anyone’s heart, and I couldn’t do that if I tried. My job is simply to be open about my faith, to start the conversation and to share about what Jesus means to me. 

Like anything worth doing well, evangelism takes practice. 

And thankfully, God does not leave us to figure it out on our own. When we find evangelism hard, we can ask Him to reveal ways we can share His love with others. 

There are a number of ways to overcome barriers to the gospel. We can navigate language barriers by using gospel-sharing resources in multiple languages, such as the JESUS film or shorts on the Jesus Film Project app (there is also a helpful video series on how to use the app here). Resources like Cru’s Soularium and the GodTools app are also great tools to naturally start conversations about the gospel. 

This video also gives us another practical approach to sharing the gospel with anyone, anywhere: 

Although it can be challenging, as Christians, we must always be ready to share with someone the reason for the hope we have (1 Peter 3:15) and to point to Jesus when the opportunity arises. 

Evangelism: starting where you are  

When you think of the word “evangelism,” what comes to mind? 

Maybe you think of noteworthy evangelists like Billy Graham or Bill Bright, the founder of Cru. And names like these do fit the image of an evangelist. But they aren’t the only ones. 

Personally, when I think of someone who evangelizes well, the first person who comes to mind is my grandmother—I called her Guela. As a hair stylist, my Guela Elsie considered the clients she served to be her congregation. As she snipped and trimmed, she shared the hope of Jesus to every person who sat in her swivel chair. She would listen to their stories, share her testimony and pray with them. And when she retired, she spent her days walking the streets of Orlando, sometimes over seven miles a day in the summer heat, sharing the gospel and praying for anyone willing to take her up on it. 

My point is that it doesn’t take a three-point sermon or a well-rehearsed speech to share your faith. Start small. Invite someone you know who doesn’t follow Jesus out to coffee or lunch and share your story. 

If you can talk about how Jesus has changed your life, then you are ready to evangelize. 

If you found this post helpful and would like to dive deeper into the topic of evangelism, take a look at these Jesus Film Project blogs: 

• Equipping Yourself for Evangelism 
• What is Digital or Online Evangelism
• Sharing the Gospel: 7 Tips and Tactics

Robin is an agriculture specialist with Unto, the humanitarian ministry of Cru^®. He works with ministries around the world to research and share farming techniques. By teaching communities how to grow their food and earn income through gardening and agriculture, Robin and his team help provide people with ways to feed their families and communities when food and jobs are scarce.

But there’s a bigger purpose at play here. These gardens and farming techniques are bringing communities worldwide face-to-face with the gospel.  

I got the chance to sit down with Robin and chat about how his work fulfills the Great Commission, and what it means for the everyday Christian to live on mission in community in practical ways. 

Through workshops, mission trips and partnerships worldwide, Robin sees firsthand how practical skills—like composting, raised garden beds or installing irrigation—can open doors to deeper spiritual conversations, and eventually to the gospel. 

Interview With Robin Greaves 

Robin’s unique role gives him a front-row seat to how missional community works in real life, especially on the mission field. And the lessons he’s learning overseas offer powerful examples of what it looks like to live on mission in community, no matter where we are.

What a Garden Can Teach Us About Missional Living

When Robin isn’t traveling the world to teach farming techniques and share the gospel, you’ll find him in Cru’s community garden. This plot not only serves as a research site for his work with Unto, but also as an example of community. 

While a portion of this space is reserved for Robin’s hands-on research, the rest is open for Cru staff to plant and grow whatever they’d like. Through their work in the garden, people find themselves connecting with one another in unexpected ways, each growing their own fruit, vegetables, or herbs, yet all serving one common purpose. 

The Bigger Picture: It’s Not About the Garden

The work that Robin is doing with Unto paints such a beautiful picture of how meeting practical needs can serve the higher calling of fulfilling the Great Commission. In the garden, people connect by working alongside one another, learning ways to meet needs both at home and abroad, and using these as avenues to share Jesus. 

But at the end of the day, it’s not about growing vegetables or gardening; it’s about cultivating something deeper—connection, community, and ultimately, life transformation through the gospel. 

A community garden may be the “thing” that creates a space for one person or group to encounter the gospel through Christian community. But for someone else, it might look entirely different. The heart of missional living in community is simply using what God has given you, where you are, to reach others with the love and hope of Jesus.

What’s Your “Community Garden”

There are many ways you can build a sense of neighborhood, as Robin said. Maybe it’s not a community garden (although it might be). But wherever you are, you can do something to live out your mission in your community. 

• Maybe you’re part of a book club—what would it look like to open it up to someone outside your usual circle?
  
• Are you gifted with your hands—woodworking, sewing or painting? Could you share that skill in a way that invites others in?
  
• Do you love to cook or bake? What if your kitchen became a space for connection or hospitality?
  
• Are you a mom? Could you gather other moms who need community, encouragement or rest?
  
• Do you live in an apartment complex? Maybe your common room becomes a place for ministry, like Apartment Life—an organization that builds community by connecting apartment residents through intentional gatherings and events. 

Maybe you’re already engaged in community through a shared hobby or regular gathering, but it’s exclusive. Could this be a place to invite someone who believes differently than you, or who has yet to meet Jesus? 

When living on mission meets living in community, ordinary things—like a garden—can become extraordinary ways to fulfill the Great Commission. I hope that my chat with Robin helped inspire you to find the way you can live out your mission and invite your community in.

These small, everyday moments remind me that missional living isn’t about going overseas—it’s about being present and intentional wherever we are. As Christians, our neighbors, coworkers, and even strangers we encounter in our daily routines are part of our mission field. Wherever you are, whoever you’re with, you are on mission. The Great Commission calls you to that mission. 

The following 10 Scriptures are intended to help Christians like us live missionally.  My hope is that these Bible verses on missional living will equip and inspire you to walk boldly in that calling. Feel free to bookmark them, highlight them or tuck them away to reflect on later.

1. Ephesians 2:10 – Know Your Purpose

“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” — Ephesians 2:10, New International Version

This verse demonstrates three truths about our life’s purpose as Christ followers: 

1. We were made on purpose. No matter the circumstances into which we were born, God handcrafted each of us with love and intention, and He had our purpose in mind when He did so. 
2. He prepared meaningful work for us to do before we were even born. Another verse in the book of Psalms says that God ordained our days before one of them came to be. 
3. The work God has for us to do is good, leading us to serve others practically out of love for them. It reflects God’s kingdom and His heart, and it comes as a result of our walking with Jesus.
   

Missional living begins with this understanding––that we are not here by accident. God made you and me for a purpose. And part of that purpose is to be His hands and feet in the world. When we see our neighbors, coworkers and baristas as part of that purpose, we begin to understand what it means to live missionally.

2. Matthew 28:18–20 – Embrace the Great Commission

“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.'” — Matthew 28:18–20, NIV

This passage, often called the Great Commission, is Jesus’ final command before He returned to heaven. It’s a charge to every believer: Go. Make disciples. Baptize them. Teach them.

Missional living means we don’t keep Jesus to ourselves. It means stepping out and sharing the love we’ve received. Whether we fly across the globe or step across the street, we as Christians are called to participate in the mission of sharing His message of hope and love. 

3. Colossians 4:2–3 – Start With Prayer

“Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains.” — Colossians 4:2–3, NIV

The apostle Paul knew the importance of prayer in living a Christ-centered life. In his letter to the Colossian church, he encouraged them to devote themselves to prayer for themselves and for him and his ministry, even through the persecution he suffered. 

When we pray, we partner with God in the mission. We can ask Him to prepare hearts, open doors for us to share the gospel and to give us boldness. And He is faithful to answer prayers. 

Don’t underestimate the power of your prayers for the people around you. Even silent or whispered prayers can impact someone’s eternity.

4. Acts 2:42–47 – Live in Community

“They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe at the many wonders and signs performed by the apostles. All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need. Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people. And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” — Acts 2:42–47, NIV

The early church thrived because they lived out their faith together in community. They shared meals, met needs, worshiped and prayed side by side.

You don’t have to live missionally alone. In fact, you’re not meant to. True community—genuine, Christ-centered relationships—is one of the most compelling witnesses to a watching world. When those outside of a relationship with Jesus see how we as Christians live our lives alongside one another, serving each other out of genuine love and care, it shows them a picture of what life looks like as a part of God’s Kingdom, as part of His family. This picture of love in action shines a light in a world longing for connection, revealing the gospel in a practical and tangible way. 

Your church community is a great place to start. And if you’re looking for a way to challenge your congregation to live on mission, this resource by Pastor Tim Keller gives a great picture of what a missional church looks like. 

5. 1 Corinthians 9:22–23 – Be Relevant

“To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings.” — 1 Corinthians 9:22–23, NIV

Paul’s letter to the Corinthian church challenges them to understand that living a holy life does not mean acting so differently from the rest of the world that they no longer relate to those around them. Paul wasn’t about putting on a religious mask. His ministry brought him face to face with people, and he served them and taught them, caring for them and showing them how Jesus changed his life. 

Living missionally means being approachable. It means caring about what others care about, learning their language and stepping into their world—not to become like those who don’t know Jesus, but to bring Jesus to them.

6. 1 Peter 3:15 – Always Be Ready

“But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15, NIV)

The gospel is personal, but it’s not private. We’re called to be ready—to explain, to testify, to share why Jesus gives us hope.

Sometimes those opportunities come when we least expect them––in a classroom, at a soccer game, over coffee, or waiting in line at the store. This verse challenges us to always be ready to share the hope we have in Christ. That could mean sharing the story of how you started following Jesus, or using a ministry tool or resource to help you dive into a gospel-centered conversation. And when the door opens, speak with gentleness and respect. 

7. Acts 8:34–35 – Seize the Opportunity

“The eunuch asked Philip, ‘Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?’ Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.” — Acts 8:34–35, NIV 

Philip didn’t plan that encounter. The Holy Spirit led him there. But because he was ready and willing, he was able to seize the moment and lead someone to Jesus. He was even able to baptize the man when they came upon a body of water on their journey. 

Living missionally means sharing the gospel at any time, in any situation. As Christians, it’s not enough for us to have the hope of Jesus within us. We are charged with sharing that hope with the world, just as Jesus and His disciples did.

I once taught English in a country where sharing the gospel was restricted. During a tutoring session, a student showed me an English book she was reading: The Chronicles of Narnia. I took that moment to show her parallels between the story and the Bible, and that conversation turned into a chance to share the gospel and pray with her. By God’s grace, I was able to recognize that opportunity and take action. This passage challenges all Christians to follow the Holy Spirit’s lead and share the gospel when possible. 

8. Colossians 4:5–6 – Speak with Grace

“Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” — Colossians 4:5–6, NIV 

How we speak matters. In a world full of noise, missional living means choosing our words carefully. When we speak with grace and wisdom—online or in person—we reflect Jesus. That might mean responding with kindness when others don’t. And sometimes, that grace opens doors for deeper conversations about faith.

We represent Christ. Every word counts. You never know when a gentle answer might soften a heart or spark curiosity about your hope.

9. Luke 10:30–35 – Be a Neighbor

 “Jesus said: ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. “Look after him,” he said, “and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.”‘” — Luke 10:30–35, NIV

Jesus told this story to redefine what it means to be a neighbor. The Samaritan showed love even though it went against the cultural norms of the day. His actions demonstrated that his concern and care for this man went beyond customs and expectations.

How often do we go out of our way to serve someone who cannot repay us, or who might even consider us their enemy? Living this way pulls us out of our comfort zones, requiring us to love our neighbors in practical, sacrificial ways. Jesus modeled this for us throughout His earthly ministry, and He calls us to follow His example. 

10. 1 Thessalonians 2:7–8 – Share Your Life

“Instead, we were like young children among you. Just as a nursing mother cares for her children, so we cared for you. Because we loved you so much, we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well.” — 1 Thessalonians 2:8, NIV

Missional living is not just about proclaiming the gospel—it’s about being present. It’s not enough to tell others about Jesus, but we’re called to go further, walking with them, loving them and inviting them into our lives. 

It’s easy to tell someone in need that we are praying for them or to offer encouragement when someone is struggling. But missional living goes beyond words—it challenges us to be involved in the lives of those God has placed around us, to invest our time and energy in these relationships and to meet the needs we see when we can. It means sharing our lives with others as well, allowing others to serve and care for us when we need it. 

In this verse, Paul models this way of living for the Thessalonian church. Paul and his companions Silas and Timothy invested in people beyond preaching by sharing their lives. They cared for them and allowed themselves to receive care in return. We’re called to do the same.

Living out the mission

While there are many ways to express the gospel message, living a missional life takes intentionality—careful thought and focused action. It means understanding that Jesus changed us and sent us to the world to proclaim His love to everyone still waiting to encounter Him. And it means living in a way that shows Jesus to others even when we aren’t speaking. 

Fulfilling the Great Commission is the mission of every believer. And living missionally doesn’t always require you to jump on a plane to a least-reached country or preach from behind a pulpit on Sunday morning. What it does require is a willing heart and a daily commitment to love people like Jesus. 

I hope these Bible verses on missional living helped encourage and equip you to walk out that calling. Looking for more inspiration? We wrote this blog all about how to live missionally just for you.

For many, Easter Sunday is a day to get together with family, hunt for Easter eggs and maybe get a visit from the Easter bunny. Your family might share a special meal like roast lamb, or baked treats like hot cross buns. My family celebrates Easter with a lunch where everyone–including my cousins, aunts and uncles–brings a dish to share. For people of different faith backgrounds, Easter is a celebration of springtime. But for Christians like us, the meaning of Easter is much more. 

Easter, also known as Resurrection Sunday, is one of the most important holidays in Christianity.  It commemorates Jesus’ resurrection from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion. Celebrated on the first Sunday after the first full moon of spring, Easter reminds us of the hope and new life we have in Christ.

Why Does Easter Matter to Christians?

To understand why we celebrate Easter, we have to go back to the beginning. 

Genesis 1 tells us that when God created the world, He made everything good, including the first man and woman. But when Adam and Eve chose to disobey God’s command, they made a way for sin (the breaking of God’s law) and brokenness to enter the world. 

The consequence of sin is death (Romans 6:23) and separation from God, and from that point on, everything and everyone would carry the mark of sin. 

But God, being loving and compassionate towards His creation, provided a way to pay the price for the sins of the world. In His love, He sent His own Son, who had never sinned, to the world. Jesus lived a perfect, sinless life, and He showed us the way God wants us to live. 

But Jesus had a mission. He was to be a sacrifice, given in exchange for the sins of mankind. He was crucified–executed on a wooden cross–by the leaders of the day. When Jesus died, He took our sin, and the death that came with it, upon Himself. 

But Jesus did not remain dead. On the third day after His death by crucifixion, Jesus rose from the dead and began appearing to His followers. 

This is the reason we celebrate Easter: because of the miracle of Jesus’ resurrection!

This is great news for everyone who believes in Him because those who do believe receive the promise of everlasting life with God. This special holiday symbolizes victory over sin and death and the promise of eternal life through Jesus. Because of Jesus’ resurrection, we who believe in Him carry the hope of life with Him. And that’s something worth celebrating! 

Important Days in the Easter Season 

The Easter season isn’t just a single day—it’s a meaningful journey leading up to Resurrection Sunday. The season begins with Ash Wednesday, moves through Lent, and culminates in Holy Week. While not everyone observes every moment of this season, what matters most is keeping our hearts focused on the reason we celebrate: Jesus’ sacrifice and resurrection.

Important days leading up to Easter: 

• Ash Wednesday falls 46 days before Easter. It marks the beginning of Lent with a call to repentance, reflection and spiritual renewal.

• Lent (40 Days, not including Sundays) is a season of fasting and prayer that mirrors Jesus’ 40 days in the wilderness and prepares believers for Easter.

• Palm Sunday marks the start of Holy Week–the week before Easter–and celebrates Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, where crowds welcomed Him with palm branches.

• Maundy Thursday commemorates the Last Supper, when Jesus washed His disciples’ feet and instituted Communion.

• Good Friday is a solemn day when Christians remember Jesus’ crucifixion and His sacrifice for our redemption.

• Holy Saturday falls on the day before Easter Sunday. It is traditionally a quiet day of waiting and reflection, symbolizing the time Jesus lay in the tomb before His resurrection.

• Easter Sunday is the joyful celebration of Jesus’ resurrection, symbolizing victory over sin and the promise of eternal life. 

Common Easter Symbols and Traditions

As with most holidays, people around the world celebrate Easter in different ways. For many, it’s a day to spend with family and participate in unique traditions. 

For Christians like you and me, attending church services on Easter Sunday is the heart of the holiday.  Church services are a time to honor the resurrection of Jesus. Churches celebrate Easter in different ways, from Orthodox traditions to sunrise services and dramatic retellings of the gospel story. During these services, lighting candles is often part of the experience, symbolizing Christ’s triumph over darkness. I remember the church I attended as a child pulled out all the stops on Easter, from special songs to dramatizations of Jesus’ resurrection. 

Beyond the sanctuary, Easter spills over into colorful customs shared with family and friends. Children eagerly take part in Easter egg hunts, searching for hidden treasures like candy, small toys or brightly decorated eggs. Decorating eggs is another favorite tradition, with families gathering to dye or paint them in festive colors. These eggs, ancient symbols of new life, remind us of the Resurrection and the promise of renewal.

Many children wake up to find Easter baskets filled with treats and surprises. Some families also exchange small gifts with loved ones. In some regions, people decorate Easter bonnets with flowers and ribbons.

Families often celebrate the holiday with a special meal, gathering around foods like ham, lamb, or Easter bread, like hot cross buns. Lamb, in particular, carries deep symbolic meaning to those of us who follow Christ, representing Jesus as the Lamb of God.

Some families plant Easter flowers—like lilies, tulips, or daffodils—as a living reminder of life, growth and new beginnings reflected in both springtime and the Easter holiday. 

All of these symbols and traditions remind us that this is truly a day for celebration. They all point to the meaning of Easter.

Celebrating Easter 

Growing up in a church-going family, I look back on my family’s Easter traditions with gratitude. I remember making a mess with my mother and sister at the kitchen table as we dyed and painted hard-boiled eggs. I recall getting lost in pastel fabric as we shopped for new Easter dresses. Some of my favorite memories involve hunting for eggs with my cousins in my grandfather’s yard, each of us vying for the one with the best prize inside. But most of all, I remember attending Easter church services. 

Even my friends who didn’t attend church regularly often came on Easter Sunday. These services are sacred moments to honor the cornerstone of our faith. For those who don’t follow Jesus, it’s a chance to hear the story of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection—perhaps for the first time.

This is why many Christians use Easter to share the gospel with their friends and loved ones who do not yet follow Jesus–and with good reason! The holiday provides a wonderful opportunity to invite those you know to celebrate and observe Easter traditions while focusing on the true reason behind them. It’s the perfect chance to share the hope we have in Christ with those who still need Him. 

What better time to share our faith than on this day when we remember and celebrate Christ’s resurrection? 

Sharing Your Faith This Easter

The fact that Jesus defeated death and gives us new life in Him is our living hope as Christians. And we are called to proclaim this hope to the world. In fact, the last thing Jesus told His followers before he ascended into heaven was to: “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19, NIV) 

Fulfilling this Great Commission starts with sharing the gospel. While that may sound intimidating if you have never done it, it doesn’t need to be. There are so many incredible resources that can help you get started. 

The True Story of Easter for Kids: Beyond Eggs and Bunnies 

There are countless resources explaining Easter, its meaning, its origins and the ways people celebrate. This video series provides a kid-friendly explanation of Easter that can be shared with anyone. As you watch each of these short videos, consider how they might be helpful to those looking to dive into Easter’s deeper meaning. 

The Origins of Easter 

When we think about the meaning of Easter, our minds may turn to bunnies, eggs and lots of chocolate! But Easter is really a worldwide Christian festival, as important to Christians as Christmas. So what are Christians actually celebrating on Easter? 

This episode explores the origins of Easter by going back to the very beginning and discovering Jesus’ mission in coming to Earth. It illustrates to the true Christian meaning of Easter.

The Story of Good Friday

“It’s not fair!” are words we’re all familiar with. We want fairness and justice. But possibly the most unfair thing ever to have happened took place on the very first Easter. Jesus was innocent; His friends and even His opponents knew that full well. And yet, Jesus was sentenced to death by crucifixion—a terrible punishment. 

This episode explores Jesus’s trial for crimes He hadn’t committed and how it all ties into God’s plan to rescue the world from sin. 

The Meaning of The Resurrection

Jesus was dead and buried in a tomb. An enormous stone and Roman soldiers guarded the entrance. But when some of His followers visited the tomb one early morning, something astonishing unfolded. The stone was rolled away, the soldiers gone; an earthquake, angels, and an amazing message! Not everyone likes surprises, but for Christians, this surprise at the heart of Easter is the best news the world has ever heard!

This final episode of the series explores the resurrection of Jesus and the hope that it brings Christians today.

Resources to Help You Share Your Faith This Easter

If you aren’t sure where or how to start telling others about Jesus this Easter, I encourage you to begin by reading up on sharing your faith. This blog is a great starting point. 

You can also check out our collection of Easter-themed short films and videos. These videos, many of which are available in different languages, are meant to help you start and guide conversations about your faith and all link back to the topic of Jesus’ resurrection. 

Did Jesus Defeat Death? is one of our newest short video series, and it centers around the evidence for Jesus’ resurrection. The three-part series goes hand-in-hand with the Easter holiday and is available in multiple languages, making it easy to share with someone who doesn’t speak English. 

I pray that wherever you are this Easter, your heart will be filled with joy and gratitude. Jesus is alive, and through Him, we are made new. His resurrection gives us hope both in and beyond this life, and that’s worth celebrating.

Prayer is communicating with God, and it’s a key part of our lives as Christians. But have you ever had trouble knowing what you should pray for, or even how to pray?

I’ve certainly struggled with that question from time to time. For many of us, whether we’re new to the faith or have followed Jesus for some time, it can often feel intimidating. How do we know what we should pray for? Early followers of Jesus had the same question. 

“One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples'” (Luke 11:1, New International Version).

Jesus then guided them through a prayer, which we commonly know as The Lord’s Prayer, to communicate with their Heavenly Father. This prayer gave Jesus’ disciples both direction about how to pray and what they should pray for. Jesus essentially provided the first prayer guide to His followers, and as Christians, we still use prayer guides today. There are many guides and resources out there to help Christians like you and me focus our prayers.

What Is a Prayer Guide?  

As Christians, there are many ways we can engage in prayer. A prayer guide is a resource that helps us focus our prayers. These tools often use Scripture, prompts and questions to help us direct our conversations with God. Some prayer guides share different methods of prayer, while others might list requests that you can bring before God. 

Prayer guides for unreached nations

As a ministry, Jesus Film Project aims to equip believers with the tools they need to share the gospel message with everyone, everywhere, with a special focus on those countries with the least access to the gospel. This includes global prayer guides to help Christians pray for nations around the world that are largely unreached with the message of Jesus. 

Did you know that nearly three-quarters of all the world’s unreached people––those who have not yet heard about Jesus––live in 12 countries? Many people in these least-reached countries have never heard the gospel message. 

Each of our eight global prayer guides contains facts and a short description of one of these countries. You’ll also find specific prayer requests from Christians living there so that you can pray for these needs. 

Whether you’re praying alone, with your family, or with your church community, these guides can help you inspire and grow your heart for these least-reached nations to hear about Jesus. 

Here are five ways you can use these global prayer guides in your prayer time: 

1. Use Them in Your Personal Prayer Time.

During Jesus’ time on earth, He often set aside time to be alone and to pray to his Heavenly Father. As a teacher, He might have encouraged His followers to pray like this or showed them how to do it. Instead, the Son of God set the example for Christians to seek quiet and solitude to come to the Lord in prayer by modeling it Himself. Then, He instructed his disciples in the way they should pray. 

Using a prayer guide can help direct your prayers and keep you focused on specific needs during these quiet times with the Father. Each of our global prayer guides has seven specific prayer requests—one for each day of the week. 

Here are a few ways you can divide them up: 

• Pray for a different request each day of the week 
• Pray for all the requests every day for a week
• Focus on one request each week until you have covered each request

How or when you pray for each request in the guides is up to you. What matters is that you are lifting these needs to the Lord. Our God is faithful and hears every one of our prayers. 

2. Pray With Your Small Group or Bible Study.

“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25, NIV).

The author of Hebrews instructed early Christians to gather together and encourage one another in their faith. When we gather together and pray with one another, we put this instruction into practice. 

Praying in a small group is a great way to nurture your own prayer life and create connections with other believers. It also provides the chance to pray for the needs of others. 

If you are leading a Bible study or prayer group, consider downloading and sharing our global prayer guides with the members of your group or Bible study. The guides can help your small group pray with purpose. Divide the prayer requests between your group members so that each person focuses on a specific need, or you can all agree to pray for one request each day. 

Talk with your small group and agree on how you will pray for the requests in the guides. Then, you can come together to lift up each least-reached nation represented in prayer. 

3. Unite Your Church Through Prayer.

Have you ever considered praying with your church as a whole? You might think this is only possible with a smaller congregation, but it could work well with any size church if the prayer requests are available to everyone. A prayer guide is an excellent tool to help unite your church in prayer.

Many churches dedicate specific times or seasons to praying for missionaries serving in ministry abroad and those around the world who don’t yet know Jesus as Savior. Why not suggest one of those prayer times focus on least-reached nations? If your church’s leaders agree, it could shake things up in a good way and provide something fresh for everyone to be a part of.

It’s also a great way to unify your church under one goal or mission for a season. And unifying your congregation in prayer can be an effective way to build a sense of community. That unity is pivotal to a healthy church.

Use our global prayer guides to lead your congregation in prayer times that are more strategic and focused. The members of your church can pray for these requests at home with their families, or you can pray over the requests as a church family. You might dedicate a service to lifting up the needs of least-reached nations or devote a specific portion of a service to guided prayer. Many churches open their doors early so members can pray before service begins. All of these provide opportunities for your congregation to unite and engage in guided prayer.

4. Guide Your Family in Prayer. 

Leading your family in regular, dedicated prayer times can help bring your family together. If you have children, praying with them is a great way to help them develop their own habit of prayer and teach them how to regularly talk to the Lord. It’s also a great way to model prayer.

Our global prayer guides include a coloring page to encourage younger children to consider cultures in other countries. It may even prompt a discussion about children in other countries: Do they pray? What language do they pray in? Do they know God? 

Using prayer guides with your family can also spark meaningful conversations about people around the world who don’t yet know Jesus. It can help introduce your children to the concept of the Great Commission and how believers are working to reach people from other countries with the story of Jesus.

5. Use Them as Part of a Mission Trip.

A friend of mine recently signed up to participate in a short-term mission trip to Thailand with his church. He shared these prayer guides and encouraged the group to prepare for their trip by familiarizing themselves with the country and praying for those they would serve.

Using the guide allowed the team members to focus their prayers and prepare their hearts for their time in Thailand. 

If you are part of a short- or long-term mission, using a country-specific prayer guide is an excellent way to help your team members intercede for those they will serve.

Want to Join Us in Prayer? 

Prayer is a powerful way to join God’s mission, even from afar. Whether you’re praying alone, with a group, or as part of a larger initiative, a prayer guide can help you stay focused and pray with boldness and faith. 

Are you ready to make an impact through prayer? Download our global prayer guides and start praying for the least-reached nations.

You can also visit our prayer page, where you’ll find information on the specific needs of a different least-reached country every month.