I recently spoke with a woman by phone who wanted to become a Stonecroft Speaker. After visiting the website, she felt she knew the Stonecroft focus and was sure her talk would be perfect for this venue.
As we talked, I had concerns. She told me how people had criticized her for speaking about Jesus, her dreams and visions, and controversial issues.
I explained that some people might be “allergic” to spiritual things and not understand her story. I told her we all have a story – some are more effectively shared at retreats, church events, or one on one. Even great stories are sometimes not a good fit with Stonecroft’s target audience (those who don’t know Christ). She became exasperated as I explained our format and focus, and asked me what Jesus would think of me telling her that her story needed to be changed or wasn’t a good fit for Stonecroft.
I felt a little attacked and prayed furiously within. I said Jesus would say, “Georgia, I spoke to the Pharisees, the woman at the well, fishermen, physicians, tax collectors and in each instance I used language and examples they could relate to. I didn’t talk to the men fishing the same way as I talked to the Pharisees or the woman at the well.”
We prayed together and planned to meet after the New Year.
Stonecroft Speakers address those who are skeptical, who have been hurt by a past religious experience, and who are seeking. We need to share Christ’s love, a perfect God, our sinful nature, the great sacrifice of Jesus. How He pursued us, how we made the decision and how it changed us, in such a loving way, that they will be drawn to Christ just as we were.
Rejoice when God asks us to change part of our talk or replace an illustration with an updated one (one someone will relate to better). Rejoice when challenged not to say some of the things we want. This allows the people God has called us to share with to relate and their hearts to open to the Holy Spirit’s work and God wooing them to Him.
Georgia Basko
Regional Speaker Trainer and Stonecroft Regional Administrator
Women’s Connection