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The Bridge to Life

This illustration is a simple way to explain the work of Christ and how to begin a relationship with Him. It can be sketched anywhere—on a napkin, an envelope—in about 15 or 20 minutes. As you draw out the bridge for a friend, walk through these four major points of the Gospel: God’s love, man’s problem, God’s remedy, and man’s response. Consider asking questions like the ones included below to engage your friend in a dialogue as you go through the illustration.

1. God’s Love and Plan
 God created us in His own image to be His friends and to experience a full life assured of His love. But He didn’t make us robots—He gave us the freedom to accept or reject His love.
Q:    What do you think it means to live life to the fullest?
Q: How are God and mankind different?


2. Man’s Problem: Separation from God
 Mankind has chosen to disobey God and so become separated from Him. This separation means the penalty of an eternal spiritual death.
Q:    Have you ever wanted to talk to God but He seemed far away?
Q:    When you think of death, what do you think about?


3. God’s Remedy: The Cross
On our own, we cannot attain the perfection needed to bridge the gap between mankind and God. Christ’s death alone is adequate for our sin and bridges the gulf between God and man.
Q:    If death is defined as separation from God, what is life?
Q:    Why did Christ die?


4. Man’s Response
Believing means trust and commitment—acknowledging our sinfulness, trusting Christ’s forgiveness, and letting Him control our lives. Eternal life is a gift for us to receive.
Q:    Where would you place yourself in this illustration?
Q:    Is there any reason why you shouldn’t cross over to God’s side and be certain of eternal life?


It might be helpful to present this illustration to Christian friends and invite their feedback. Then pray for opportunities to share it with those who need to hear God’s loving plan for bringing them into relationship with Him.

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Most of the verses listed with the drawings are included in The Navigators’ Topical Memory System (TMS). Learn more about the Topical Memory System or order booklets with The Bridge Illustration already diagrammed.