Questioning Evangelism

1. Engage Hearts with Questions, Not Just Answers

I’m not calling into question the validity of evangelism. I’m calling Christians to use questions in the venture of evangelism.

Rethink Evangelism. Traditional evangelistic methods, often focused on delivering pre-packaged answers, frequently fall flat with genuine seekers. The author's encounter with Artyum, a Ukrainian student who posed foundational questions about "God" and "love," revealed that sweeping aside such inquiries as "smokescreens" can miss a sincere desire for understanding. This experience highlighted the need for a more dialogical approach.

Jesus' Example. Our Lord Jesus Christ frequently responded to questions with questions, a practice central to "rabbinic evangelism." This method, unlike a sales pitch or a purely rational argument, aims to engage people's minds and hearts by:

• Surfacing underlying assumptions.
• Shifting the pressure from the evangelist to the inquirer.
• Paving the way for new, often challenging, concepts.
• Alleviating hostility by reflecting the "heat" of an attack.

Beyond Answers. While declaring and defending the gospel are crucial skills, "dialoguing the gospel" is essential for our postmodern audience. This involves a give-and-take, asking questions and bouncing ideas, leading both participants toward truth. The goal is not just intellectual assent, but a deeper engagement that can lead to genuine conversion, recognizing that faith is more than just agreeing to facts.

2. Cultivate Wisdom and Compassion for Effective Witness

Becoming people of wisdom and compassion is the prerequisite for any evangelistic technique.

Wisdom as Foundation. Just as consistent exercise boosts metabolism for overall health, immersing ourselves in the wisdom of Scripture, particularly Proverbs, transforms our entire approach to life and evangelism. This means becoming people who embody the gospel, speaking freely from hearts and minds captivated by it, rather than relying solely on memorized techniques.

Solomon's Lessons. The book of Proverbs offers four key lessons for "Solomonic soulwinning":

• Avoid Argument: "Starting a quarrel is like breaching a dam" (Prov. 17:14). Winning an argument can alienate a person from the gospel.
• Recognize a Fool: Some dialogues should never start or should be ended. A fool "finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions" (Prov. 18:2). Don't "throw your pearls to pigs" (Matt. 7:6).
• Remember People Are People: We are whole beings, not just rational or spiritual. Dale Carnegie's principles (e.g., be genuinely interested, listen well, make others feel important) align with biblical wisdom (Prov. 16:7).
• Remember the Power of the Tongue: Words can bring healing or destruction (Prov. 18:21). Use words with restraint, choosing respectful and timely responses over haste or silence.

Beyond Technique. The story of the author's successful "Chapter Unity" talk to a fraternity, which focused on forgiveness and encouragement rather than direct preaching, illustrates how wisdom and compassion can "win souls" (Prov. 11:30) more effectively than a confrontational approach. This means influencing hearts for a righteous end, not just delivering information.

3. Pave the Way for Belief by Building Plausibility

False ideas are the greatest obstacles to the reception of the gospel.

Dismantled Structures. For many today, belief in Jesus seems as unlikely as believing in a "Plug Theory" where countries are kept afloat by a hidden plug. This is because many traditional "plausibility structures"—like belief in objective truth, the meaning of words, or the law of noncontradiction—have been dismantled in modern thought. We must actively rebuild these structures.

Paul's Weapons. The apostle Paul's ministry agenda in 2 Corinthians 10:3-5 calls for "demolishing strongholds" and "taking every thought captive." This involves using dialogue, challenging questions, and well-crafted explanations to dismantle weak scaffolds of belief and make scriptural truth seem more solid.

Five Principles for Plausibility:

• Raveille Precedes Revelation: Awaken people from illogical beliefs. When someone says, "All religions are the same," respond with a gentle "Really?" to prompt deeper thought.
• Some Things Can't Be True: Help people see self-refuting statements. If "all religions are true," then contradictory claims cannot coexist. Ask, "Can you explain that to me?"
• Some Things Can Be Partially True: Acknowledge truth in other worldviews, but emphasize the need for "the whole truth." Respond with "So?" to partial truths, inviting further exploration.
• Some Things Might Be True: Encourage openness to possibilities. When faced with skepticism about the Bible, ask, "Isn't it possible that the God who inspired the Bible also preserved it?"
• Somebody Sees the Whole Elephant: Challenge the "blind men and the elephant" parable by asking, "How do you know that no one sees the whole elephant?" This exposes the teller's own claim to superior knowledge, paving the way for God as the one who does see the whole picture.

4. Address Intolerance by Unpacking the Necessity of the Cross

If Jesus is not the only way to salvation, why, then, did he have to die?

The Intolerance Charge. In a culture that champions "openness" and "tolerance," the Christian claim of exclusivity ("I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me," John 14:6) is often met with the accusation of intolerance. This is a formidable challenge, emotionally charged and demographically widespread.

Strength of the Argument. The radical claims of Jesus himself—forgiving sins, existing before Abraham, being "I AM," and asserting His unique path to God—force a choice: He is either megalomaniac or Messiah. C.S. Lewis's "Lord, Liar, or Lunatic" argument remains powerful. The New Testament's high Christology (Col. 1:15-20) and the significance of the Resurrection further solidify this exclusive claim.

Truths Behind the Cross. To understand why Jesus is the only way, one must grasp two non-negotiable truths:

• God's Holiness: God is absolutely good and right, demanding justice and moral purity.
• Human Sinfulness: We are more rebellious and self-centered than we think, not just "missing the mark."
  The Cross uniquely addresses both, demonstrating that no amount of human goodness can bridge the gap. If righteousness could be gained otherwise, "Christ died for nothing" (Gal. 2:21).

Dialoguing "One Way" in a "No Way" World:

• Surprise: Challenge the accuser's own intolerance. "What's so bad about intolerance?" or "You sound intolerant of my intolerance."
• Despair: Lead people to the realization that self-salvation is impossible. Like the rich young ruler, they must see that "no one is good enough" to earn heaven, creating a hunger for grace.
• Clarify "Never Heard": For those concerned about the unevangelized, explain that God judges based on what is known (Rom. 1:19-20) and that He will ensure the "rest of the story" reaches those who genuinely seek Him.

5. Confront Suffering with Empathy and the "Who," Not Just the "Why"

I don’t know why God allows evil things to happen, but I’m glad that He did allow one evil thing to happen—He allowed Jesus to die on the cross.

The Ultimate Why Question. Events like 9/11 or personal tragedies like Rodney Dickens's death intensify the age-old question: "Why does a good God allow evil and suffering?" Many common Christian "answers" fall short, failing to address both intellectual confusion and emotional pain.

Job's Nonanswer. The book of Job, a long poem of dialogue and lament, offers no neat philosophical explanation for suffering. Instead, it guides us through a process of grief, argument, and despair, culminating in God's "answer" of questions, not explanations. This teaches us humility and reminds us that our greatest need is not an intellectual explanation, but to know who God is, not why He acts as He does.

Beyond Partial Truths. While the Bible offers "slivers" of understanding (e.g., fallen world, free will, consequences of sin), we must resist presenting these as the whole answer. Acknowledging "we don't know" for the vast majority of the "why" is crucial. Untrue answers (like Rabbi Kushner's "God can't do everything") or utter silence are equally unhelpful.

Answering a Different Question. When confronted with suffering, instead of rushing to explain, respond with empathy: "I wish we knew. Can you tell me what you're feeling right now?" This validates their pain. Then, when appropriate, pivot to the compelling "who" and "what" of the gospel:

• "I don't know why God allows evil, but I'm glad He allowed Jesus to die on the cross."
• The Resurrection validates Jesus' claims, offering hope and making the pains of this life more bearable (Rom. 8:18).
• This knowledge outweighs the unknowns, compelling us to follow a God who offers joy, assurance, and a better life.

6. Encourage Bible Literacy by Highlighting its Plausibility and Power

The Bible is like a lion. If people criticize it, you don’t defend it—you let it out of its cage.

Beyond Historicity. When people question the Bible's authority, the real issue is often not its historical accuracy, but their willingness to submit to it. In a world where "SpiritScrolls" encourage individuals to write their own scripture and Ayn Rand's philosophy champions self-interest, the Bible's claims of divine authority are met with resistance.

Four Factors for Belief (and Reading): Instead of immediately defending the Bible's historicity, encourage people to read it by highlighting its unique qualities:

• Plausibility: "Isn't it reasonable that a God who created us could, if He wanted to, communicate with us through inspired writing?" This minimal agreement opens the door.
• Messiness: The Bible's diverse authors, genres, and sometimes confusing passages can actually be a strength. This "untamed book" corresponds to our complex nature and humbles us, making it a perfect revelation for our messy lives.
• Reality: Once open to reading, the historical, archaeological, and eyewitness evidence supporting the Bible's claims can be presented.
• Need (Narrative Evangelism): Present the gospel as the Bible's overarching story:
  • Creation: We are made for intimate relationship with God.
  • Rebellion: Our self-centeredness led to eternal separation.
  • Redemption: The Messiah, Jesus, rectified this through His death and resurrection.
  • Consummation: A future of perfect intimacy with God.

The Power of Story. Humans are "story creatures," and the Bible's narrative connects with our deepest needs and longings for purpose and a happy ending. Unlike other worldviews that offer shallow explanations (like the "bug's life cycle" for human death), the biblical story offers profound truth and hope. By letting the "lion" out of its cage, we allow the Scriptures to do their own convicting, humbling, and saving work.

7. Navigate Sexuality with Truth, Love, and a Focus on Wholeness

Because we love you, we want the very best for you.

"Judge Not" and Homophobia. The phrase "Judge not, lest ye be judged" (Matt. 7:1) is often weaponized against Christians who uphold biblical sexual ethics, particularly regarding homosexuality. This leads to accusations of "homophobia" and a perception that Christianity is intolerant. However, Jesus' command means "do not condemn with harshness or self-righteousness," not "do not make negative evaluations."

Biblical Perspective on Sexuality:

• 1 Corinthians 6:9-11: Lists various sexual sins (including homosexual behaviors) alongside other sins like idolatry and greed, emphasizing that these are behaviors, not inherent identities. Crucially, it states, "And that is what some of you were. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified..." offering hope for change.
• "Homophobic" vs. "Afraid For": Instead of being "afraid of" homosexuals, Christians should be "afraid for" them, recognizing the potential harm of unbiblical lifestyles.
• Planks and Specks: Before addressing others' "specks" (sins), we must remove our own "planks" (e.g., superiority, denial of our own lust, hatred, fear, disbelief in change, coldness, or reluctance to discuss).

Why Marriage is Good:

• 1 Corinthians 6:12-17: Sex is not merely physical ("food for the stomach"). It is sacred, profoundly bonding, and meant for the Lord. Adultery "disintegrates" the whole person, damaging intimacy.
• Secures: Marriage provides a constant, secure foundation in an insecure world, fostering constancy over fleeting ecstasy.
• Soothes: Lifelong commitment allows for deep vulnerability, acceptance, and healing, soothing the ache for attachment. This sacred intimacy is protected by exclusivity (Prov. 5:15-20).
• Sanctifies: Marriage transforms selfish individuals into sacrificial ones, exposing our flaws and driving us toward Christ-likeness. It's a "fire of righteous purification" that makes us "more wicked than we ever dared believe but, in Christ, more accepted and loved than we ever dared hope."

Dialogue with Compassion: When discussing sexuality, especially with those struggling with same-sex attraction (SSA) or those sympathetic to gay lifestyles, approach with love, a listening ear, and a willingness to share hope for wholeness and change, rather than condemnation.

8. Address Hypocrisy by Clarifying the Gospel and Our Shared Brokenness

If Jesus is so great, why are some of His followers such jerks?

The Persistent Question. The "hypocrisy question" is a common and potent objection to Christianity, often fueled by personal pain or a desire to discredit the church. From historical atrocities like the Crusades to personal betrayals by clergy, people rightly ask, "If this is what Christianity is about, why should I want any part of it?"

Beyond Mere Hypocrisy. While some use this question as an attack to justify their own unbelief (as Mohammed did, questioning Christian division), others voice deep pain and disillusionment from crushed hopes (like Bett, who had an abortion). Jesus Himself condemned religious hypocrisy more harshly than other sins, recognizing its power to obscure God's truth.

Clarifying the Gospel: The hypocrisy question offers an opportunity to clarify misconceptions about Christianity:

• Profession ≠ Possession: Not everyone who claims to be a Christian truly is. Christianity requires being "born again," not merely being born into a religious family.
• Salvation ≠ Perfection: Christians are not perfect; they are on a progressive journey of sanctification. We "have been saved" (penalty), "are being saved" (power), and "will be saved" (presence) from sin. The church is a "haven for hypocrites" because it's a place for broken people seeking healing, not a club for the already perfect.

The "Already/Not Yet" Kingdom. Hypocrisy exists in the church because we live in the "already/not yet" kingdom of God. Jesus' first coming brought salvation and healing, but "the day of vengeance" and full perfection await His second coming. This "time between the times" means that while believers experience God's power, they still struggle with sin and imperfection.

Responding with Grace:

• Deflect Attacks: For insincere questions, gently turn the question back or expose the questioner's own hypocrisy (Prov. 26:4-5).
• Empathize with Pain: For those hurt by hypocrisy, acknowledge their pain and express genuine sorrow.
• Admit Shared Brokenness: Humbly confess your own hypocrisy and point to the Cross as the solution for all sin, including yours. "One of the reasons I'm a Christian is because it solves my own hypocrisy problem."
• Highlight Forgiveness and Transformation: The church is where "we're all jerks," but also where we find forgiveness and the power to change, making us less stained and more like Christ.

9. Transform Apathy into Compassion Through Confession and Empathy

I don’t care about people the way I should. I have a cold heart. Please make me more like You—caring, compassionate, gracious, and abounding in mercy.

The Jonah Complex. Many Christians struggle with a "Jonah complex"—a lack of genuine compassion for the lost, sometimes even wishing for their condemnation. This apathy, or even contempt, can manifest in harsh evangelistic messages that alienate rather than attract. The author's prayer for Al-Qaeda members revealed his own struggle with a cold heart.

Examples of Compassion (and its Absence):

• Jesus' Compassion: "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matt. 9:36). He saw beyond superficial appearances to their deep need.
• Paul's Distress: He was "greatly distressed to see that the city was full of idols" (Acts 17:16), driven by a holy anger against idolatry and a burden for people enslaved by it.
• Jonah's Contempt: Jonah's reluctance to preach to Nineveh, a "great city" in God's eyes, stemmed from his hatred for his enemies and his self-pity. He cared more for a vine than for thousands of people.

The Scandal of Grace. Our hearts are transformed by marveling at the "scandal" (skandalon) of grace. The parable of the vineyard workers (Matt. 20:1-16) highlights God's counterintuitive generosity, which often offends our sense of "fairness." This humility, born from realizing our own unworthiness and God's boundless mercy, should compel us to share the "bread" of salvation with other "beggars."

Steps Toward Compassion:

• Confess Lack of Concern: Humbly confess your coldness to God, asking not only for forgiveness but also for purification and a heart more like His (1 John 1:9).
• Pray for the Lost: Regularly pray for specific non-Christian friends and neighbors. This act of intercession draws your heart closer to them.
• Practice Empathy: Seek to understand why a particular worldview "seems right" to someone (Prov. 14:12). This involves listening to their stories, acknowledging their pain, and validating their feelings, even if you disagree with their conclusions.

10. Channel Anger Righteously to Avoid Hindering the Gospel

A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.

The Problem of Angry Evangelism. The sight of angry street preachers or the tone of some Christian communications (especially online) often creates "noise pollution" that repels rather than attracts. While righteous indignation exists, much of the anger expressed by Christians is tainted by sinful motivations, hindering the spread of the gospel.

Proverbs on Anger:

• Harmful Anger: "Man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires" (James 1:20). It stirs up dissension, leads to foolish actions, and is contagious (Prov. 29:22, 14:17, 22:24).
• Wise Responses: A prudent person "overlooks an insult" (Prov. 19:11). "A gentle answer turns away wrath" (Prov. 15:1). Phrases like "You sound really upset" can diffuse tension.

Roots of Sinful Anger: Anger is often a secondary emotion, triggered by:

• Hurt: Rejection of evangelistic efforts can lead to anger (e.g., Troy's tract story).
• Fear: Concerns about societal moral decay or threats to family can manifest as anger.
• Frustration: Helplessness, embarrassment (e.g., Barry's embarrassment over anti-intellectual Christians), or sadness (e.g., Debbie's marital grief) can boil over into anger.

Managing Anger (Ephesians 4:26-27):

• "In your anger do not sin": Anger itself is not inherently sinful, but how we express it can be.
• Truthfulness: Acknowledge anger honestly, rather than denying it.
• Timeliness: "Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry" to prevent giving "the devil a foothold."
• Constructive Expression: Learn to express anger in unharmful ways, focusing on feelings and issues rather than insults.

By understanding and managing our anger, we can prevent it from becoming a barrier to sharing the Good News, allowing our message to be heard with clarity and love.

11. Master the Art of Listening to Open Doors for the Good News

He who answers before listening—that is his folly and his shame.

The Neglected Tool. Listening is arguably the most crucial yet most overlooked skill in evangelism. While we are called to "always be prepared to give an answer" (1 Peter 3:15), effective answering requires careful listening to understand what is truly being asked, whether directly or indirectly.

Why We Don't Listen: Often, we assume we already possess all the truth, diminishing the perceived value of what an "unsaved" person might say. This can lead to one-sided conversations, like a dentist talking to a patient with a mouth full of instruments.

How to Start Listening:

• Starter Questions: Begin with open-ended questions like "Do you ever think about spiritual things?" or "At what point are you in your spiritual journey?"
• Relationship-Building Questions: Once trust is established, ask more pointed questions like "Has anyone ever explained how a personal relationship with Christ is possible?"
• Deep Scalpel Questions: For those showing significant interest, use direct questions like "If you were to die tonight, how sure are you that you'd go to heaven?"

How Not to Listen: Avoid common pitfalls that shut down dialogue:

• "Me, Too!": Don't immediately match their problem with your own story; focus on their feelings and experiences.
• "Oh, Yeah?": Resist the urge to "top" their story with a more dramatic one.
• Hot Buttons: Don't let emotionally charged topics (e.g., abortion, homosexuality) derail the conversation into an argument. Listen to the underlying concerns.
• "Yeah, Right!": Avoid sarcasm or scoffing at outlandish beliefs; seek any principle they might get right.
• Too Many Words (from you): Resist the urge to fill every silence. Allow breathing room for reflection.
• Too Few Words (from you): Don't let others monopolize the conversation, enabling them to solidify their own folly. Sometimes, a strategic exit or a challenge to read something is necessary.

Gracious Listening: Effective listening flows from a humble, stilled heart, transformed by grace. It involves:

• Reflective Listening: Paraphrase what you hear to ensure understanding and show you value their words ("Let me see if I'm hearing you correctly...").
• Emotional Mirroring: Identify and empathize with their emotions ("You sound upset..."). Respond to feelings with feelings, and facts with facts.
• Finding Common Ground: Acknowledge shared experiences or beliefs ("I see how you could believe that").
• Cool Listening: Like Miles Davis's jazz, use fewer, well-chosen words to prompt further thought, rather than an avalanche of information. Phrases like "Maybe," "I wonder," or "That's interesting" can invite deeper engagement.