I have been looking at evangelism from the
viewpoint that everyone is different. We all have what may be known as a personality
“style” that filters over into our witness for Christ. Some are Confrontational
- like Peter in Acts 2:23-24 and 36. Some are Intellectual - like Paul in
Athens as he related what he had to say to their culture; Acts 17:22. Others
are Testimonial like the blind man in John 9 - he didn’t want to argue or try
to explain what happened, he simply said; “I was blind, now I see!” Some are
Interpersonal - like Matthew in Luke 5 - let’s look at this one; Jesus calls
Matthew - “come follow me” and Matthew does. Then he throws a party and invites
all his friends (who happen to be tax collectors.) This coincides closely with
a person who is Invitational - like the woman at the well in John 4 who goes
back to town and invites the people to “come and see”; And finally, those who have a Servant style…They
are the ones who “show up” at events like weddings and funerals, and do what
needs to be done. No glory, no thanks, and no pat on the back or praise…they
are just there when needed. While some of the styles may overlap - all should
overlap with “invitational.” When dealing with people and witnessing, it is
usually best to stick with your style…because that is your comfort zone.
No matter what style or approach we may
use, when people are convicted by the Holy Spirit they have two choices; they
can become hostile and try to defend their sin…or they can surrender. However,
we can’t just point out the problem…we also must have the answer!When it comes to evangelism and witnessing, what is the goal? (Salvation) It’s not enough to just be nice and courteous and spend time with people, even with family, hoping that somehow our faith will “rub off”. It’s not enough to intellectually explain or debate the Bible, nor is it enough just to be bold and confront sin, we must look for ways to talk about Jesus and the gift of God’s grace, and invite a response. When we stand before the Lord, I would think we would rather be holding their hand than just wondering where they are?
Will they reject us or what we have to say? Maybe, but say it anyway! It may not be what they want to hear, but someone has got to tell them. When the Apostle Paul spoke, there were usually three reactions; 1. They were mad. 2. They were curious, and wanted to know more. 3. They were convinced, and made a decision. We will get the same three reactions from people.
Now, let me explain the three different conversational methods; first, there is the Direct method. Typically a question or a statement. Do you ever think about spiritual things? On a scale of 1-10 where is your relationship with God? You seem to have a lot of opinions about (church or spiritual matters) what translation of Bible do you like best?
Second is the Indirect method. This involves a transition from what’s being said or done into spiritual thinking. For instance: Situation where it is natural to comment on (nature) be it the weather, beautiful sights, or animals in the Zoo. Perhaps just sitting around talking about hobbies or talents and abilities. Or, your friend confides in you about a problem they are having.
Third is the Invitational method. It’s an opportunity to get to know them. Whenever there is something special going on you invite them to come or, you can (extend) the invitation by doing something before or after. Remember this is a “no strings attached” relationship. If they say; “We don’t want to attend_____ but, we will meet you after”… It’s still an opportunity to get to know them better.
These conversational methods can work with any style. However, if you feel like you have an ulterior motive, you do! But, what better motive could you have than to see your family, friends, and neighbors saved and transformed by the power of Jesus Christ! It’s called - “LOVE”
There was a little lesson we all learned as children when crossing the street. Do you remember what it was? “Stop, Look, and Listen.” The same applies to conversations with our family and friends.
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