Relational Evangelism

Relational evangelism. I've heard a whole spectrum of definitions for this. At one extreme is, "I just live my life, and maybe someone will notice something different about me." At the other extreme is what we call "missionary dating" by which you get a boyfriend or girlfriend who you intend to convert. Neither is a good healthy way to carry out evangelism as the Lord commissioned us!

But that first definition sounds like it would work. Why do I call it unhealthy? Well, it's not in one way. It's good to live a life that's different and that honors God. Actually, it's more than good--it's necessary! Where this definition goes wrong, though, is when it's all we ever do to share the Gospel.

Evangelism is something that all Christians are called to engage in. Some of us have a knack for it, and some of us just do it out of obedience. But I believe all of us can engage in "relational evangelism." My definition involves sitting down and talking to a person about life (whether you know them or not)--engaging in who they are and what they believe--and then gently sharing the truth in love. I've seen it work so many times!

One of my favorite questions when I meet someone new is, "What's your biggest question about life?" People usually give a funny look for a moment and then spill the beans.

The first time I asked a new acquaintance this question, he replied, "Wow...I don't know..." I began to wonder if there would be a reply. Then suddenly he poured his heart out: "What's the point? Why am I here? Why am I so depressed all the time? Why is my life such a wreck"

Now we had some conversational material! I replied with, "Would you to talk about some possible answers?" The men I was with and I shared the Gospel with this gentleman for the next three hours, leading him to relationhip with Jesus Christ.

I've come to learn that sharing the Gospel is far easier than one might think. Just look for any opportunity in a conversation to bring up God--even generically--and you'll often see people reach out for more of your thoughts on God. That's where you gain an opportunity to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ and how He is the only way, truth, and life.

I like to mostly ask questions because it conveys how much I care about what the other person believes. And when they try to trap me with fruitless debates, I follow the example of Jesus and respond with another question. For example, I was once asked, "How can a loving God send people to hell?" My response: "Do you believe there is a hell?" Suddenly the tables turned and we were dealing with a whole new topic. This brought the opportunity to talk about the righteousness of God, the justice of God, and the saving grace of Jesus Christ that is freely accessible to everyone.

Don't be afraid to form friendships like these with people who do not believe--those are the ones we're trying to reach! Jesus hung out with corrupt tax collectors, prostitutes, and drunkards. Are you willing to associate in public with alcoholics, corrupt businessmen, and promiscuous women? (Please note that I'm NOT suggesting you spend any time alone with these women, unless you too are a woman and it is safe! Always go in teams, and always stay out in public whenever possible. Just some practical advice.)

Based on the example of Jesus and personal experience, I highly recommend that you carry out the ministry of evangelism on a relational scale. Meet people where they're at, and minister in love.

And above all, do it in the power of the Holy Spirit!