How do we ever get comfortable discussing the gospel with non-believers?
It happens when we give God's Word time to grow in our hearts. It begins when we consistently read the Bible, Matthew 13:31-32, "Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a man took, and sowed in his field: Which indeed is the least of all seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof." The mustard seed is God's Word. Some of the birds are those who eat the seed before it can form roots, Matthew 13:3-4, "And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow; And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and the fowls came and devoured them up:"
As we mature in our faith and allow God's Word to take root in our hearts, we gain a deep understanding of the gospel's transformative power. We are like the tree grown from the mustard seed, sturdy and firmly rooted, providing shelter for others. This newfound strength in our faith equips us to engage in meaningful conversations with non-believers. Romans 10:14, "How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" This verse reminds us of the importance of sharing the gospel with others. It's through our willingness to proclaim the good news that others have the opportunity to believe.
1 Peter 3:15, "But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear." This verse emphasizes the need to be prepared to explain our faith to others with humility and respect.
When discussing the gospel, we should be open to learning from others and acknowledging that we don't have all the answers. It's also essential to listen actively to the concerns and objections raised by non-believers. We can say, "I may not have all the answers, but let's explore this together and seek the truth." But we had better believe what we said and back it up with an open mind, prepared to do the studying with them.
Colossians 4:6, "Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man." This verse underscores the importance of speaking with kindness and wisdom when discussing the gospel. Our words should convey the truth and be seasoned with grace, patience, compassion, and humility. Our role is not to forcefully impose our beliefs but to lovingly share the truth and gently guide them toward a deeper understanding of God's love and grace.
As we engage in these discussions over time, we become more adept at handling objections without becoming emotional or defensive. Our calm and patient approach reflects God's Word's transformation into our lives. We show through our actions that the gospel is not just a set of beliefs but a living, powerful force that has changed us from the inside out.
In conclusion, becoming comfortable discussing the gospel with non-believers is a journey of personal growth rooted in our deepening faith. As we allow God's Word to mature in our hearts, we gain the strength and wisdom needed to engage with love, patience, and humility. Let us continue to be vessels of God's truth, always ready to share the hope and joy that the gospel brings to our lives and those we encounter on our faith journey. Amen.
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