PERSONAL EVANGELISM The Excuses of Moses and us

PERSONAL EVANGELISM The Excuses of Moses (and us) Exodus 3: 10 -4: 17

Moses at the burning bush • Exodus 3: 10 -4: 17 • Moses is 80 years old (Ex. 7: 7, Acts 7: 30) and tending the sheep of Jethro • He sees a burning bush that is not consumed • The Lord commissions Moses to deliver His people

• • Moses at the burning bush Moses begins making excuses Who am I? (Ex. 3: 11 -12) What shall I say? (Ex. 3: 13 -22) What if they don’t believe (Ex. 4: 1 -9) • I am not eloquent (Ex. 4: 10 -12) • Please send someone else (Ex. 4: 13 -17)

Moses at the burning bush • Excuses and evangelism. • Some of the excuses we make to keep us from reaching others are similar to those of Moses on that occasion.

Excuses and Evangelism • Who am I? • Moses lacked confidence. • Many today lack confidence • You can do something! • “I will be with you” – 1 Pet. 2: 910, Matt. 28: 20, 2 Cor. 3: 5 -6, Phil. 4: 13

Excuses and Evangelism • What shall I say? • Many today fear questions they cannot answer. Don’t know what to say • Let the word of God speak – 2 Pet. 1: 3, Jude 3 • Know and speak first principles – 1 Cor. 15: 1 -4

Excuses and Evangelism • What shall I say? • In my experience, most people do not know much of scripture. • Find the answer! • How long is this excuse valid? • Will we work to be more proficient? 2 Tim. 2: 15, 1 Peter 3: 15

Excuses and Evangelism • What if they don’t believe me? • While we don’t have miracles like Moses, we have the word • Let it speak! Rom. 1: 16, 10: 17, John 20: 30 -31 • There are resources available “What is that in your hand? ” • Don’t take rejection personal! Just move on - Luke 9: 3 -5, John 15: 20 • Your job – Ezek. 3: 16 -21, 1 Cor. 3: 5 -8

Excuses and Evangelism • I am slow of speech • Some don’t think they are good orators. Can’t defend the truth! • Again, let God’s word speak! 1 Cor. 2: 1 -5 • Moses was given Aaron. We have seasoned brethren who can help! Just ask! Cf. Acts 10: 24, 33

Excuses and Evangelism • I don’t want to go • Closer to the real reason. • This angered God. It did not excuse Moses. He still had to go! • So do we. We have responsibilities Eph. 4: 16, Titus 2: 14 • We will stand before God answer!

If you don’t go, will God accept your excuses?