Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. (Colossians 4:5-6 NLT)
You know during the 21 years (1985-2006) that I was an adult as well as a non-believer / non-follower of Jesus Christ as God – I didn’t appreciate it when believers and followers – friends and strangers – approached me and told me that I would go straight to hell when I die if I didn’t come to God. I was not their equal. I was inferior to them because I didn’t know God, and they did. That’s what they made me think – even if they didn’t overtly come out and say that. I think they actually believed that. Their representation of God was one that I didn’t care to meet – ever.
They were not living (or speaking) wisely among us in the world. They blew their golden opportunity. Their conversation was not gracious or attractive. It was unkind if not hateful. Instead of winning a soul for Christ they were pushing me further away from Him. I wanted to run – not walk – far away from them.
Despite the work of the enemy – God still won the battle – and He rescued and saved me almost 14 years ago (in a few weeks).
I believe that in order to be effective and efficient evangelists – God’s Good News Messengers – which we are all called upon to do – we must be polite and respectful of the world out there. Don’t tell them that they are sinners. Don’t tell them that they are going straight to hell upon death. They don’t want to hear that from us. We’re all sinners. We’re no better than any of our neighbors – no matter who or what they believe or follow. We are all God’s creations. We are all created equal.
When the opportunity presents itself – tell them of the God that you know. Tell them of the God that you praise and worship. Tell them of the God that makes you happy. Tell them of the God that saved your life. You don’t need to be fancy about it. Just say what you know to be the Truth. Don’t force it on them. If they appear to be turning away from you then just show them God’s love. If they proceed to avoid you with every chance they get – then let them see the God in you via your actions. Some of the strongest evangelism occurs by doing rather than saying. Never give up on your neighbor.
You must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope – always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. (1 Peter 3:15-16a NLT)
All rights reserved (c) 2020 Christopher M. Day, CountUp Ministries
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