This episode addresses some common pitfalls that derail effective evangelism. Some in evangelistic encounters are tempted to correct everything a would-be convert says. They feel it's their obligation to set the record straight, particularly if the other party misrepresents a point in theology, a passage in the Bible, or the motives of other Christians. Such a posture is burdensome for evangelists who presume it's their job to "fix" other people. Worse, a nit-picky conversational style puts people on the defensive and rarely leads to further openness to the gospel. Let people be people, expecting confusion or outright nonsense to be verbally expressed. Pray for the Spirit's leading, both when and how to correct. Secondly, if possible, don't use "churchy" language and even adapt Biblical language to the would-be converts word-choices, if it's in the general ballpark. Lastly, don't judge outward appearances, apparent life-style choices, or motives. We are called to preach judgment without being judgmental. Of course, we should honestly answer any question regarding the above, if the Scripture has a clear answer, rightly dividing the Word of Truth. While we speak the sober truths of Scripture, conversation about those truths should be relaxed and without the strings-attached mentality of evangelists with control issues. Sinners were drawn to Jesus but avoided Pharisees for good reason. Jesus saw beyond external secondary issues and uncovered root issues, while Pharisees prioritized external "righteousness" over the heart. The wise evangelist always uses Jesus as the model.
