How to Talk About Jesus - Chapter 1
- Sallyann Clark
- Sep 16
- 2 min read
Welcome to your new reading book!
Before we start, answer the question below in your journal.
Have you ever felt nervous about speaking in front of others? Write three sentences about a time you felt awkward or embarrassed sharing something you cared about.
Bonus: Draw a funny stick figure cartoon to show the moment!
Read through chapter 1 of 'How to Talk About Jesus Without Looking Like an Idiot' by Andy Bannister.
In your journal, answer the comprehension questions:
What are some of the reasons Andy gives for why people don’t talk about Jesus?
How does Andy make this chapter funny? What’s his style like?
What is his main message about why Christians should talk about Jesus?
Vocabulary Builder
In your journal, define the following words in your own words (use a dictionary or online search if needed):
Evangelism
Apologetics
Objection
Reluctance
Cultural pressure
Choose two of the above words and write a sentence using each.
Theology Focus: What is the Gospel?
Read Romans 1:16:
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes…”
Reflect:
What does this verse say about sharing your faith?
Why do you think Paul says, “I am not ashamed”? Have you ever felt embarrassed about something important?
In your journal, make a list of ways you could share your faith.
Colour in the memory verse.
Compare & Contrast: Other Faith Perspectives
Many religions have something to say about truth and sharing beliefs.
Research:
In Islam, how is da’wah (inviting others to Islam) similar or different from Christian evangelism?
In Hinduism, how do people talk about their beliefs? Do they try to convert others?
Reflect:
What makes Christianity unique in how it shares its message?
Why might comparing beliefs help you grow stronger in your own faith?
Create a poster that explores what you have learned about Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, highlighting both their similarities and differences.
Creative Writing Challenge
Prompt:
“Imagine a teenager who is trying to explain why Jesus matters… but they keep getting interrupted by silly things (like a phone going off, a dog barking, etc.).”
Write a funny short scene, script or cartoon strip.
Try to use at least one of the words from the vocabulary section!
History Focus: Who Was Paul?
Watch the Bible Project video: Acts 8-12 and 13-20.
Mini Biography:
Write 3–5 bullet points about who Paul was.
Note where he lived.
What made him change from someone who hated Christians to one of the most famous ones? Re-tell the story in your own words.
Include maps of Paul's missionary journeys, labelling the countries he visited.
Discussion Prompt
Question:
Should we ever talk about our beliefs if it might make someone uncomfortable?
Write down:
One reason for sharing your beliefs.
One reason against.
Then, write your own opinion in 3 sentences.
Personal Challenge of the Week
Choose one:
Pray each day for courage to speak about Jesus, even in small ways.
Ask someone what they believe about God (just listen respectfully).
Memorise Romans 1:16.
