Are You a Person of Influence?

What does it mean to be a person of influence?

I recently read an article that listed ten steps in a strategy to becoming a person of influence. Among the suggestions listed were to become more visible on social networks such as LinkedIn and Twitter. Also suggested was writing a blog or e-books and seeking out speaking engagements.

These suggestions might work fine in the business world. But how can you become a person of influence where spiritual matters are concerned? What suggestions might work to influence the world for Christ? How can an average person ever hope to have influence that changes the world for the better?

Farther down the list I found a couple more suggestions. One was to start a movement around something you are passionate about. Well, this one is an easy one. We don’t have to start a movement, we’re already involved in one with firm foundations that began with twelve passionate men who took Jesus at His word and were faithful to share it.

Another useful recommendation said to become a subject matter expert. In the business world, that means to learn all you can about the subject you care about. Isn’t that what we’re called to do with the gospel? The purpose of God’s Word is to make us experts on the subject of His gift to humanity. We’re called to learn all we can about Jesus and His kingdom.

Finally, it was suggested we become super connectors. The article went on to explain that there is always someone we can introduce our friends and colleagues to in order to create a greater network. Business people are always looking for new contacts that will advance their business. This is a suggestion that rings true to the believer. We were created and commissioned to be super connectors! What better goal in life than to connect all of our friends to the one person who matters most to us? Jesus is waiting to be introduced to everyone you know.

What does it require to become a person of influence where Christ is concerned? Become a follower of Jesus, learn all you can about His plan and purpose by reading His Word and then determine to look for every opportunity to connect everyone you know to the One who already knows them by name.

Then Jesus told his disciples, ‘If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.'”Matthew 16:24

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.”2 Timothy 3:16

Those who have insight will shine brightly like the brightness of the expanse of heaven, and those who lead the many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.” Daniel 12:3