The holiday season offers a unique opportunity to share the gospel, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. With busy schedules, complicated family dynamics, and the potential awkwardness of conversations, evangelism during Christmas can sometimes feel overwhelming. But by keeping a few simple principles in mind, you can navigate these obstacles and make Christ known in a way that feels natural and authentic.

Here are 3 Don’ts and 3 Do’s to guide you in sharing the gospel during the holidays. 

Don’ts

1. Don’t get distracted.

The season of celebrating Christ’s birth can quickly become about everything but Christ. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with holiday shopping events, and traditions. Take time to simplify your schedule and unplug from distractions like your phone so you can stay focused on the true reason for the season: knowing Christ and making Him known. Pray for wisdom to prioritize the gospel and to keep your heart tuned to the mission of sharing Christ, even amidst the busyness.

2. Don’t be that person at gatherings.

We’ve all encountered people at holiday gatherings who make things uncomfortable—whether through political debate, gossip, complaints, or judgment. Don’t be that person who brings negativity to the table, especially with family. Instead, be a blessing by choosing your words carefully. Pray the Psalmist’s prayer: “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips” – Psalm 141:3. Let your speech reflect Christ’s love and grace, even in difficult or tense moments.

3. Don’t be a jerk when you share the gospel.

Sharing the gospel is important, but how you share it is also important. Aim for respectful, one-on-one conversations where both you and the other person can talk openly. Remember 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” Make a defense does not mean to argue or get defensive. It means clearly explaining “the hope that is in you” with gentleness and respect.

Do’s

1. Pray before and during opportunities.

Prayer is vital to successful evangelism. Each day, dedicate time to surrendering yourself to God and asking for His guidance. Pray for opportunities to share the gospel, and for the boldness and wisdom to recognize and seize them when they arise. Stay in constant communication with God, both before and during your interactions, so He can use you in the lives of others.

2. Learn where they are.

If you want to build meaningful connections, it’s important to understand where people are coming from. Proverbs 1:5 says, “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.” Take the time to listen to people, ask thoughtful questions, and seek to understand their perspective. This helps you build bridges to their head and heart, making your conversations more meaningful.

3. Build bridges for the gospel.

Thoughtful gestures like giving a meaningful gift, writing a personal note of appreciation, or spending quality time together can create opportunities to share Christ’s love. Use these moments to transition the conversation toward spiritual matters. Here are some questions that can help guide those conversations:

• “What’s the most meaningful part of Christmas for you?” 

• “How can I pray for you?” 

• “Are you interested in spiritual things?” 

• “Where are you on your spiritual journey?” 

• “Do you know for certain that you’re going to heaven?” 

These “bridge questions” can open doors for deeper discussions and provide a natural way to share the hope of the gospel. 

For those who feel unsure about how to present the gospel, consider using a simple, clear method like EvanTell’s “Bad News/Good News” approach. This straightforward tool can guide your conversation and help you communicate the message of salvation in a way that is easy to understand. You can find this method in the EvanTell app, available in both video and flip book formats, making it an accessible tool for on-the-go evangelism. 

Remember, the first Christmas was all about Christ coming to us. Now we can help others come to Him. As you engage with those around you this Christmas, let your words and actions reflect the love of Christ. There is no greater gift you can give than to share the gospel. Let this holiday season be a time not only of celebration but also of outreach—inviting others to experience the hope, peace, and joy that only Christ can bring.