The Power of Influence

You have more influence than you realize. In this heartfelt and practical message from John 1, Pastor Chris Teien reminds us that people are watching our lives—and our example can point them to Jesus. By looking at the influence of John the Baptist, Andrew, and the early disciples, we’re challenged to use our lives, testimonies, and invitations to lead others to Christ in powerful ways. 

Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2285086/episodes/14525941

Key Points:

1. Influence Others by Your Convincing Testimony – John 1:29–34. John the Baptist knew who he was and boldly pointed people to Jesus as the Lamb of God.
2. Influence Others by Sharing Your Faith Confidently – John 1:35–42. Andrew immediately brought his brother Simon Peter to meet Jesus after encountering Him personally.
3. Influence Others by Your Compelling Invitation – John 1:43–51. Philip simply said to skeptical Nathanael, "Come and see," showing the power of simple, honest invitations.

Personal Stories from Pastor Chris:

• Funny stories about how different dogs influenced each other—and how we influence others without realizing it.
• Personal examples of influencing friends and church members by inviting them to events where they encountered Jesus.
• Reflections on using everyday conversations, music, and hospitality as influence tools for Christ.

Notable Quotes:

• “More is caught than taught—people are watching your life every day.”
• “Influence isn’t about getting people to follow you. It’s about pointing them to follow Jesus.”
• “You don’t have to be perfect to influence someone. You just have to be faithful.”

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Share your personal testimony and how Christ changed your life.
2. Look for opportunities to invite others to church, small group, or a faith conversation.
3. Be a consistent example at work, school, and in your community.
4. Trust that small seeds of influence, planted faithfully, will bear fruit in God's timing.

Scripture References:

• John 1:29–51 – John the Baptist, Andrew, Simon Peter, Philip, and Nathanael
• Matthew 5:16 – Let your light shine before others
• 2 Corinthians 5:20 – We are Christ’s ambassadors
• Matthew 28:19–20 – The Great Commission
• Romans 10:14–15 – How will they hear unless someone tells them?

Keywords:
 Christian influence, evangelism, personal testimony, inviting others to Christ, John 1, discipleship, Christian living, shining your light, simple evangelism, faith sharing

Closing Statement:
 You are influencing people whether you realize it or not. Choose to point them toward Jesus with your words, your actions, and your life. Trust God to use your faithful witness to change lives for eternity.

24m0218de

Well Faith shares recent sermons from Pastor Chris Teien and occasional Rockwell Church guest speakers, along with highlighting timeless replay messages from his earlier years (marked with *). These Biblical messages apply timeless truth to everyday life, offering practical guidance, encouragement, and hope for living out WELL Faith: Worshiping, Encouraging, Learning, and Loving. Find more resources and message notes by topic, series, and year at ChrisTeien.com/messages Come worship with us Sundays at 10:15 AM at Rockwell.Church 93 Midway Drive, Virginia, MN. If this message encouraged you, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, leave a review, and let us know what you think at WellFaith247@gmail.com