A Challenge from J. Warner Wallace
A Challenge from J. Warner Wallace
I remember when I first investigated the Bible, determined it was true, and trusted Jesus to forgive my sins. It seemed like my life changed immediately. I was excited about what I discovered and about what God had done for me. I wanted to tell everyone about Jesus.
All my detective partners noticed my enthusiasm right away. At first, they teased me because none of them were Christians. Some thought I was crazy because I had never been interested in God before. I didn’t care. I was so happy to finally know the truth, and I wanted everyone to hear about the evidence for Jesus.
If you’re a Christian, you probably feel the same way. Do you remember how eager you were to tell your friends when you discovered a new hobby? Do you remember how much you wanted them to know about it and join you? That’s the feeling I’m talking about. If you’re excited to tell your friends about a hobby, you should be even more eager to share what you’ve learned about Jesus! And now you’re ready! You’ve learned enough by reading this book (and completing the worksheets) “to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you” (1 Peter 3:15).
So I have a simple challenge for you: start making the case! Why wait? There’s no better time than now to share the good news. Here are some simple ways to get started:
1. Show your graduation certificate to your friends and family members. They’ll probably ask you how you earned it and you’ll be able to tell them about the evidence for Jesus.
2. Bring your Academy Notebook to church and show it to friends in your student group or Bible study. Even if they know all about Jesus, they may not know how to be good detectives or how to investigate the evidence for what we believe. Share the case for Jesus with them.
3. Think about your neighborhood friends. Have you ever talked with them about Jesus? You’re now ready to start that conversation. It can begin with something as simple as “What do you believe about Jesus?”
4. Holiday meals and parties usually involve many family members. Not all of them may believe in Jesus. On the next holiday gathering, show your Certificate and Academy Notebook to your family members and tell them how you earned it and all about the evidence for Jesus.
You’re now part of an important team. You’re a member of God’s family and you’re also a graduate of the Cold-Case Christianity for Kids Student Cadet Academy. Teams don’t just sit on the bench; they get in the game. Accept the challenge and start sharing what you’ve learned with others.
May God be with you as you share what you’ve learned,
J. Warner Wallace