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.
Overcoming Bad Impressions through Lovingkindness
This episode emphasizes how the character of the evangelist significantly impacts future receptivity, either confirming negative stereotypes of the evangelist or overthrowing them. Many have had negative encounters with preachers whom they label as argumentative, dogmatic, close-minded, self-righteous, and "holier-than-thou." While Christianity is the exclusive means of salvation and all other religions are false, some Christians come off as arrogant monopolizers of the truth who came to faith through their own efforts, apart from grace. They "win" arguments, talking over and disrespecting unbelievers. The episode queries, "if you were wrong, how would you like to be corrected?" While Christians have the Truth, they don't own it or control it. And self-righteously weaponizing the Truth to win arguments or culture-wars makes one the ostensible "owner" of Truth, when he is just a steward. The evangelist must do everything to convey that he is mere steward of the grace of God, among many. He didn't "find" Christ, the Truth found him. He preaches repentance and faith in Christ to unbelievers, using his former life as Exhibit A of a life under judgment. The episode closes with the admonition to guard one's tongue. While unbelievers are rarely persuaded on the first encounter, the initial meeting with the evangelist can make or break future receptivity. A non-argumentative and respectful posture that is eager to LISTEN more than speak prepares the soil for gospel seeds planted on subsequent encounters.