I think we’d be surprised to know how many people in this world actually like the person of Jesus Christ, but aren’t keen on becoming a Christian due to the examples set forth by his followers.
For centuries we’ve used different tools and methodologies to reach people in the name of Christ, but I feel like the ideology of the great commission was intended to be more simple than we make it out to be.
I believe we need to re-think the way we are evangelizing, witnessing, making disciples, or whatever else you may call it. Why? Because the way we’re working isn’t working anymore. Church attendance is on the decline, and the amount of self-proclaimed believers is getting lower every single day.
Why You Ask?
1) I believe some of our techniques are flawed and outdated. The bull-horns and picket signs need to go. You’re not helping anyone. And as for that look like the world but slap a Bible over it, get rid of it. People want a clear path to Jesus. One with clear direction and a clear distinction of change. What we need is more Gospel-centered evangelistic gatherings, churches focus and passionate about The Word of God, and not to mention, Christians who are willing to share their faith with others on a daily basis.
2) I believe sometimes our approach comes off as judgmental and arrogant. You’re not better than anyone, regardless of their belief or disbelief. There is no partiality in the eyes of God, which means there should be none in the eyes of God’s children. Not to mention, Christians arguing with other Christians over beliefs is the quickest way to turn off those who don’t follow Jesus. Especially when the reasons for which we are arguing are so minuscule. Give people a reason to follow Jesus, not more reasons as to why they want to avoid Christianity all-together.
3) I believe some of our focus has become less about sharing God’s love, and more about seeing how many people we can claim [to] attend our church. God doesn’t care how many people attend your church if they’re not being taught The Gospel of Jesus.
We Must Stop Judging:
As a Christian, your job isn’t to judge someone because they don’t have the same beliefs you do. If you act like a pompous jerk, don’t be surprised when they aren’t keen on joining your Jesus train.
“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.”—Matthew 7:1
We Must Re-Think Evangelism:
We need to re-think the way we are evangelizing, witnessing, making disciples, or whatever else you may call it. We must begin to ask ourselves if we are truly reflecting an image of Christ, or an opposite result that is actually harming the expansion of The Gospel. We must frequently step outside of our comfort zones and church buildings, all so that we can meet people where they’re at instead of expecting them to come to us.
“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”—Matthew 28:19
We Must Love Better:
The Church of Jesus Christ is perfect and flawless, but the reality is we as people are not. I understand that we all make mistakes, but that doesn’t mean we can ignore the fact we need to change the way we are doing things. I want us to begin evaluating the way we live our lives as Christians. Are we truly reflecting the purity and love of Jesus, or have we cracked the very foundation we are called to live on? Are we loving the way Christ loves us?
“And do everything with love.”—1 Corinthians 6:15
I don’t blame people for being timid in their choice of following Christ. Why you ask? Because some of us are pretty bad examples of Him. I know there are plenty of things I need to get better at. With that being said, I hope we can all begin exuding a brighter image of Jesus that is not only pure and loving, but graceful and forgiving.
