What is the key to evangelizing friends and family without offending them?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

Evangelizing our friends and family without offending them can be difficult. The desire to do this can come from selfish reasons (for example, we do not want to lose relationships) or from good reasons (we truly want them to be saved and do not want to put any barriers before them). Although we don't usually want to create a rift in our relationships, love compels us to implore the unbelievers in our lives to be reconciled to Christ. Unfortunately, no matter how carefully we tread, offense will likely occur (Luke 12:51–53). Despite the persecution or rejection we may face, we must rely on the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:8) and—against all odds—share the gospel anyway (Matthew 28:19–20). Even in challenging situations, we must be respectful and gentle toward those we are evangelizing (1 Peter 3:15). We must also remember that despite our weaknesses, God is strong (1 Corinthians 1:25). We should also diligently pray for our unbelieving friends and family to see “the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ” (2 Corinthians 4:4) and for us as individuals to gain wisdom (James 1:5) and grow in spiritual maturity (Galatians 5:22–23).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The topic of evangelizing is specifically discussed in the New Testament.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• Although the prospect of evangelizing to friends and family can be intimidating, sharing the gospel is important and something we should not hesitate to do (Matthew 28:19–20).
• The Holy Spirit empowers us to share the gospel (Acts 1:8).
• Our weaknesses are often used against us by the enemy as we try to rescue souls from his domain. Because of this, we must rely on the Holy Spirit to equip us through His Word. We must remember that when we are weak, He is strong (1 Corinthians 1:25).
• We should diligently pray for those to whom we evangelize and ask God to open their hearts to His truth, so they can see past the lies Satan has blinded them with (2 Corinthians 4:4).
• We should pray for God to help us in developing the fruits of the Spirit as we share the gospel (Galatians 5:22).
• Prayer is also important for believers, so we can receive God's wisdom throughout the evangelism process (James 1:5).
• Our Christ-likeness should be evident in our actions, words, and demeanor (1 Peter 3:1–2) as we evangelize friends and family.
• At all times, we should be prepared to share the gospel, but we must do so with gentleness and respect (1 Peter 3:15).
• Matthew 10:14 advises that if people reject you, shake off the dust from your feet and move on. Sometimes rejection will continue with those near you like parents, siblings, or a child. Wisdom is required to know when to keep sharing or when to shake the dust from your feet and move on—sometimes for shorter periods of time and sometimes for longer.
• John 15:18–19 reminds us that rejection is part of following Christ, as the world will often reject those who belong to Him.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Most Christians have someone they know and love who is not a believer. Often, pain and separation occur in these relationships when people attempt to win loved ones to Christ. Rejection by those we love is painful, but our love for them, flowing from God's love, helps us stand firm and continue to proclaim His truth. The way we live our lives is important for effective evangelism because we are an example of Christ’s sanctifying work in a believer’s life (Philippians 2:1–8). Despite our human limitations, God is able to supply everything we need (Philippians 4:19). He can give we who are timid such love for the lost that we cannot stay silent, and He can supply we who are bold with the ability to temper our speech with joy and compassion. Ultimately, we must evangelize with the understanding that it is God's power that saves, not our own words and efforts (1 Corinthians 2:4).

UNDERSTAND

• When we evangelize friends and family, we must reflect Christ's character in the words we say, the way we say them, and our actions.
• We can regularly pray for guidance and for God to open the hearts of friends and family to the truth.
• We need to be ready to share our faith with gentleness and respect, even if offense occurs.

REFLECT

• How can you best reflect Christ’s love in your interactions with friends and family who are not yet saved?
• How might prayer change your approach to evangelism of friends and family?
• What steps can you take to prepare yourself to share your faith with gentleness and respect, especially when you anticipate potential offense?

ENGAGE

• What practical steps can we take to prepare ourselves to share the gospel with loved ones while maintaining respect and gentleness?
• How might a person's understanding of their own weaknesses influence their ability to share their faith effectively?
• In what ways can the community of believers support each other in evangelizing others, especially friends and family?