As Christians, we want others to know Christ.

We want to convince the atheist that God’s created design is truth. We want to convince the muslim that God is Trinity. We want to convince the sikh that there is only One true God. We want to convince the Jew that Jesus is the Messiah.

We’re focused on spiritual needs.

Without Jesus, we understand the reality of an eternity in hell. We desperately want to bring them from that path, and onto a path toward eternity in heaven.

This is a correct focus on the lost and shows a compassion for all people. This is an evangelical focus.

Yet, actions speak louder than words.

Too many times, we spend all our efforts trying to convince others.

The most obnoxious form would be the guy in the park with a microphone, yelling and screaming about fire and damnation.

I feel pain and compassion during these moments.

Pain for the people who are being driven further away from Christ, because of the abrasive evangelism tactic.

Yet, compassion for my brother on the microphone, because he wouldn’t be taking part in such an embarrassing display unless he truly cared.

Maybe you’re more subtle.

You’re not on a microphone at work, pouring out wrath and judgement. However, at times, you act a bit more defensive or harsher than you should. Maybe you feel like you have to defend your faith.

I know this pattern, because this was my M.O. for several years while working in the hospitality industry.

Though the focus on spiritual needs is good, it’s still a lot of words and no action.

What about physical needs?

Addressing a physical need gives us permission to speak into someone’s life. It’s almost a guaranteed human condition.

Even though Jesus showed us this through every step of His ministry in the Gospels, we often neglect it’s importance.

For example, the Feeding of the 5000.

In all 4 Gospels we can find this account (Mt. 14, Mk. 6, Lk. 9, Jn. 6). Therefore, it must have been an important event.

Many would argue that this is a miracle to show Christ’s deity, which may be true on some level.

Yet, Scripture tells us that Jesus had compassion on the people. As sheep without a shepherd, they were lost, spiritually. So He taught them.

But He also fed them. All of them!

As we wander throughout this world, may we recognise the connection between spiritual and physical need.

Perhaps even an emotional or mental need?

Let’s try to connect a hand of help or blessing, with a voice of truth. Let’s us our actions to get permission to speak into someone’s spiritual journey.

Hopefully, through the power of Holy Spirit, softening their heart to the Message of Jesus.

Here’s a song to connect with the message.

While writing this post, Dominic Balli‘s “Louder” has run through my head. I couldn’t help but to share it with you all. Enjoy.

JOIN THE CONVERSATION:

When’s the last time you witnessed abrasive evangelism? How did it impact you and the people around you?