May 8, 2010
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on "earning the right to be heard", Part 1
Jesus gave Christians the task of "making disciples":
"Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age." -- Matthew 28:19-20
Sometimes it is said that before sharing the good news about Jesus Christ with their friends and neighbors and coworkers, Christians need to "earn the right to be heard". This is also said of youth group leaders, foreign missionaries, etc. The concept is that one needs to first earn respect from one's colleagues and peers, or endear themselves somehow, after which one can share about Christ.
To what extent is this true?
If it is true, how long does one need to wait? What if the 'respect' and 'endearment' and close friendship never occurs? What if no one ever asks you "the reason for the hope that is within you"? Do you just keep quiet about Jesus Christ the rest of your life, waiting for that moment?
cf. 1 Peter 3:15, 2 Cor. 2:14-17, 5:18-21... what other Bible passages apply?
Comments (5)
Perhaps it is less my right to be heard, but more others' right to know.
@interstellarmachine - Interesting... could you expand on that a bit?
I think this is a good question, and sometimes hard to find the balance between ramming something down someone's throat and waiting for the "right moment". But sometimes actions do speak louder than words, and you may have "said" more than you realize. Not that it's an excuse to not be vocal about one's faith, but instead not to be discouraged about having missed opportunities, if your everyday life reflects and points to Christ.
@Kelly - true...
@tim223 -
Well, it is like the difference between advertisements and warning labels on products.
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