Taking Aim at Evangelism

This past Sunday and this coming Sunday, the sermon topic is Taking Aim at Evangelism.  This past Sunday it was all about the Gospel as the content of evangelism.  Next Sunday will be more about methodology.  In preparation for that, here are some thoughts about why we might shy away from sharing our faith.

First issue:  pluralism.

If you don't know what I'm talking about, think about how many worldviews are represented at your workplace or in your neighborhood.  Think about the other religions, the not-religious-but-spiritual, the anti-spiritual and anti-religious.  And there you have it:  pluralism.

In conversations with friends, coworkers, and neighbors, it can really quickly get really uncomfortable for everyone.  It's much easier to "agree to disagree" or hedge with religion being a private matter or offering that we're all probably (or certainly) worshipping the same God anyway.

I taught Titus 3.3-8 yesterday.  Paul finishes that section with an exhortation to Titus to insist on "these things," pointing back to God's move toward us and His saving work in Christ (v.3-7).  It probably wasn't easy for Titus on Crete to insist on Christ in the midst of a pagan and pluralistic culture.  It's not easy for us either.

But insisting on Christ is still the best way.  And insisting on Christ is commanded by God.  And insisting on Christ is the only way people come to know God.  And insisting on Christ leads people to life.

But that's just me thinking thoughts...