Engaging in conversations about Jesus with those who do not believe can be a challenging yet profoundly rewarding endeavour. It's a delicate balance of respecting differing beliefs while sharing your own faith with honesty and compassion. Here are practical ways to approach these discussions and encouragement for those committed to making disciples of all nations.
1. Listen First and Ask Questions
Before sharing your beliefs, take the time to listen. Understand where the other person is coming from, their beliefs, and their experiences with religion. Asking thoughtful questions not only shows that you respect their perspective but also helps you tailor your conversation to areas they might be curious about or struggling with.
2. Share Personal Testimonies
Personal stories of how Jesus has changed your life are incredibly powerful. They can't be argued with because they are your experiences. Share specific instances where your faith provided hope, strength, or guidance. Personal testimonies resonate on an emotional level and can spark interest in the transformative power of faith in Jesus.
3. Use Everyday Language
Avoid using overly religious or church-specific language that might be unfamiliar or off-putting to someone who doesn't share your beliefs. Speak in everyday terms that everyone can understand, making the conversation more inclusive and relatable.
4. Be Respectful and Avoid Arguments
Respect is crucial. If the conversation turns into an argument, it's unlikely that either party will be open to understanding the other's viewpoint. Stay calm and respectful, even if you encounter resistance or challenging questions. Remember, it's not about winning an argument but about sharing love and understanding.
5. Find Common Ground
Identify areas of common belief or mutual interest. This could be a shared value, such as the importance of compassion or justice, which can serve as a stepping stone to deeper discussions about faith, morality, and the teachings of Jesus.
6. Offer Resources
Sometimes, direct conversation might not be the best approach, or an individual might be interested in exploring on their own. Recommend books, podcasts, or online resources that thoughtfully explore the Christian faith. Be sure to suggest resources that are approachable and relevant to their current beliefs and questions.
7. Be Patient and Pray
Change often takes time. Be patient with the people you talk to and with yourself. Keep them in your prayers, asking for God's guidance in their lives and for wisdom in how you communicate with them.
Encouragement for the Journey
As followers of Christ, our ultimate goal is to make disciples of all nations, as commanded in Matthew 28:19-20. This mission requires courage, patience, and a heart full of love. Remember, it's not solely up to us to change hearts—only God can do that. Our role is to plant seeds through our words and actions, trusting that God will water and grow those seeds in His timing.
In your efforts to share about Jesus, take encouragement from the Apostle Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7, "I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."
Article by: Micayla Niemack
