This approach is very popular because it basically uses only one verse of scripture, John 3:16. This is one of the most familiar passages in the Bible. The idea behind this model is to draw the model on a piece of paper or napkin in the midst of a conversation. Start by writing John 3:16 at the top of the page. (If you have not already, you need to memorize this scripture) Then draw two cliffs and explain that God and man are separated by a great gulf. Write “God” and “Man” above the cliffs. God desires that man join Him, and many men and women desire to have a relationship with God.
Then say, “Perhaps you have considered having a relationship with God. The gulf makes it difficult. God provided the answer by building a bridge on which man can walk across the gulf to spend eternity with Him. That bridge is the cross.” Draw the cross between the two cliffs. Man can walk across the bridge. God provided the way because:
1. God loved (write that in); the world, that’s us (write that in)
2. He gave His Son (write that in); whoever believes, that us (write that in)
3. Jesus is God, the Son (write it in); will have eternal life, that’s us (write it in)
At this time as the person how all this sounds. If the response is positive, then you are prepared to move to the next step. That is to explain that, as a result of our belief and desire to have eternal life, God desires that we give back to Him in submission. Read Romans 6:1-4. Then ask if the person is ready to submit to Christ through repentance, confession, baptism, and living the Christian life. If the response is positive, then ask the person to think and pray about these things. Also ask the permission to revisit the issue at another time.
This bridge model gives you a starting point for sharing the gospel, an opportunity to continue the conversation, and a finishing point. It can be used any time and at any place.
How does this all sound to you?
As a result of our belief and desire to have eternal life, God desires that we give back to Him in submission. Read Rom. 6:1-4.
Will you submit to Christ today? In repentance, confession, and in baptism and in living the Christian life?