Right out of seminary, I couldn’t find a job in a church. So, at the end of the summer, I learned about an opportunity to teach and coach in a little school district just outside of Dallas. A teacher who had been with the district for 25 years had resigned, and school was to start the next week. They were desperate.

One of the classes they needed me to teach was Computer Literacy. This was back in 1985, and I had never used a computer. So I told the superintendent, “I don’t think this is going to work. You want me to teach computer literacy and I honestly don’t know how to turn on a computer.” Here’s what he said, “No problem. You have the textbook. You can take a computer home to get acquainted with it. All you have to do is stay one step ahead of the students.” And that’s exactly what I did…and in the process became certified to teach computer literacy, but more importantly, I learned an invaluable lesson.

When it comes to Scripture, you don’t have to know everything…you don’t have to be a world-renowned theologian. Just nail down some of the essentials of the faith…learn to turn on the computer…and build from there. At our church, we have a class called Essentials for Growth…I am sure a church in your area has a similar class.

One more thing…at the end of the day…every person you are in a spiritual discussion with needs Jesus. You don’t need to be an expert in apologetics to share what Jesus has done in your life. Tell the story of your spiritual journey. Don’t get me wrong — you need to study the word of God…but your story — rather God’s story in your life — will be the most compelling invitation to trust in Jesus Christ.