Recently a work friend of mine (who is a pastor without a church) has been sharing with me experiences about leading people to Jesus. As of yet, I haven't lead anyone to saving faith in Jesus but I have had conversations that hopefully opened the door for later opportunities.
Some people I've met have studied world religions and come to believe all religions preach the same thing. When I talk to such people I have to be patient and explain why Christianity truly is different. Getting back on topic, one such person has told me most Christians can get pretty defensive when he questions their faith, but I have lots of experience because I have struggled with my own doubts and fears. But Jesus has revealed himself to me through the preaching of my pastors, and although I don't have all the answers I know Jesus is trustworthy and somewhere in the cosmos he has provided an answer for any question we might have.
My pastor workmate that I mentioned earlier explained that certain Christians who hesitate when their faith is being questioned are not truly loving God with all their minds. He did not say it to be condescending or judgmental. He made me realize another dimension to Matthew 22:37 "Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’"
I have no doubt God can defend His own honor, but he has chosen us to be his representatives. After we, as believers, have done everything to spread the gospel we don't need to worry if someone comes with a question we can't answer. If our confidence in God is steadfast we shouldn't need to protect ourselves when God has already worked in our lives. This is interesting food for thought that I must remember, because the day may come when a debate will be more than just a conversation, but something that could influence many people and their lives.
Some people I've met have studied world religions and come to believe all religions preach the same thing. When I talk to such people I have to be patient and explain why Christianity truly is different. Getting back on topic, one such person has told me most Christians can get pretty defensive when he questions their faith, but I have lots of experience because I have struggled with my own doubts and fears. But Jesus has revealed himself to me through the preaching of my pastors, and although I don't have all the answers I know Jesus is trustworthy and somewhere in the cosmos he has provided an answer for any question we might have.
My pastor workmate that I mentioned earlier explained that certain Christians who hesitate when their faith is being questioned are not truly loving God with all their minds. He did not say it to be condescending or judgmental. He made me realize another dimension to Matthew 22:37 "Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’"
I have no doubt God can defend His own honor, but he has chosen us to be his representatives. After we, as believers, have done everything to spread the gospel we don't need to worry if someone comes with a question we can't answer. If our confidence in God is steadfast we shouldn't need to protect ourselves when God has already worked in our lives. This is interesting food for thought that I must remember, because the day may come when a debate will be more than just a conversation, but something that could influence many people and their lives.
