Evangelizing or Proselytizing

         Similar to the "Redeeming the Time" posts, there is a distinction to be made in how to witness, to evangelize or proselytize. 
         Biblically speaking, evangelist is found in the Scriptures,  where proselytizing, or any form of the word, is no where to be found, so what's the difference between these two methods?

Here is the meaning and origin of the word evangelist:

G2099

Original: εὐαγγελιστής

Transliteration: euaggelistēs

Phonetic: yoo-ang-ghel-is-tace'

Thayer Definition:

a bringer of good tidings, an evangelist
the name given to the NT heralds of salvation through Christ who are not apostles
Origin: from G2097

TDNT entry: 14:16,3

Part(s) of speech: Noun Masculine

Strong's Definition: From G2097; a preacher of the gospel: - evangelist.

Because proselytize is not found anywhere in the Bible, here is the etymology and definition from an online source:

The word proselytize comes from the Greek language and the etymology or the "true sense" of it means converting someone into one's very own path or way of life. 

Proselytizing says that this is truth and I don't care what you think, you need to accept it and seems to have a more forceful connotation in trying to convert or somehow trying to make the person believe the truth and also seems to leave out the free will of man, when evangelizing is basically the act of heralding.  Evangelizing says that this is the truth and it's up to you whether you accept it.  The evangelist realizes that the final decision of whether or not a person believes is between them and the Lord and they don't have anything to do with that, and can't control that heart decision.  
       However,  a lot of Christians seem to have a mindset that they hold the truth and with that seems to come a mindset of proselytizing. We're still human and have a sin nature, but God's word is perfect and only God's Word can change the heart of man.
       I've known pastors that will prepare a message and then tell me that they are re-thinking it simply because they don't want to "go over the people's heads."  That thought is, not only arrogant, but statements like they "need to hear it" is along the lines of proselytizing, especially if that message is not exactly what God's Word says.
         Whether the truth of the Bible being evangelized is directed towards an established church or towards an unbelieving group of VBS kids, it is God's Word that will have the effect. 
     The truth of God is found in scripture.  There's a power in God's Word that is inexplicable and we can explain it in the most eloquent and clear way, but when the actual words are read by a person, it seems to have a supernatural effect. And rightly so since it is God's Word.

Redeeming the time part 2

          My previous post was left stating that in Colossians 4:6, believers are exhorted to be tactful in their witnessing.  Every situation is different, however some situations can obviously dictate certain scripture verses or direction of conversation, but ultimately, all these things will be led by the Lord.  As good stewards of the truth of reconciliation, we as believers need to think before we speak that truth, (James 1:19) so we do not unnecessarily close that door. 
           Being tactful in witnessing is, not only wise to keeping opportunities open and is biblical, but also helps maintain a good testimony before others.  For example: Christian A might be convinced that "redeeming the time" means that every time they have a conversation with an unbeliever, they need to push the love of Christ and force the direction of the conversation.  I know Christians that are convinced of this, but then complain when the unbeliever cuts them off or distances that relationship.  That relationship is now limited and the opportunity for witness to that person is at least hindered, if not ruined.
           On the other hand, Christian B is convinced that "redeeming the time" and the "how" need to be utilized at the same time.  The Lord is sovereign over all and is very capable of directing conversations and situations.   Maintaining a good testimony before others is vital to witnessing.   It shows others a kind of patience that can only come from the love of God, although they may not realize that at first.  In time, and perhaps in their personal reflective times, that may be a factor in their salvation.  People also do not like to be pushed into a decision and have information thrown at them.  Once the unbeliever knows that we are always willing to talk, letting them start the conversations will be much more effective in the long run.  When people know they are being treated with dignity, that simple and basic privilege of letting them make their own decision and being given the time they need to get to whatever that conclusion is, goes a long way and is a huge sign of respect.  
        

Redeeming the time

In Ephesians, is the warning and the encouragement to be " Redeeming the time, because the days are evil."  This word redeeming in the Greek has the idea of ceasing opportunity for good.  As was said in my previous post, prayer is true evangelism and seeing an opportunity to share the love of Christ involves praying for wisdom and discernment as is exhorted in James 1:5

Quoting Romans 8:28a ("And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God")
at a funeral, perhaps, as true and encouraging this is, may not be the best opportunity to reiterate.  

Some Christians see that it's more advantageous to sieze every opportunity,  regardless of the context in which the truth of God is presented.  This may be dangerous.  When Christians present the truth about God's love, or any truth about God, the presentation should be in accordance with God's character.  Back to our funeral example.  That verse is an everlasting, encouraging truth about God and promise to his children. Those who are dealing with immense pain and suffering that will last a very long time, upon hearing that, will most likely "write you off" or at least limit their interactions with you and future opportunities to minister will be lost.

Colossians 4:6 " Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man."

This command in Colossians is very indicative of that parental advice you got as a child.  "If you don't have anything good to say, don't say it."  Though very good and Biblical advice, it only refers to the first part of this verse.  The first half of this verse, along with "redeeming the time" above, is no small feat and needs the watchful and prayerful discernment which can only be sought from the Lord. 

Everyday, there is a slew of reasons for believers to get angered or stressed. (causing a temporary loss of sober thinking).  Adding to all this is the word how in Colossians 4:6.  This tells believers that their is tactfulness involved in knowing what to say and when to say it.  Siezing every opportunity for the glory of God is needful and effective, when the situation allows.  (to be continued....)

Mission-minded

How often have you seen someone “stay on track” until college, or twenties, and then "go off the deep end"? Christian faith seems to have all but disappeared and they seem to be embracing their new found “freedom.”

Sadly, I’ve seen that exact scenario happen over and over and over again.

Somewhere along the way we, as Christians, may have missed the point of why we do what we do.

To some, the Christian life has become a list of rules containing do’s and don’ts, and sadly we’ve left our Savior completely out of the picture.

A lot of people view Christianity as restraining them from the “real” fun.

They view Christianity as a list looking something like this…

Don’t have sex until you are married.
Don’t watch bad movies.
Don’t have boyfriend/girlfriend until you are ready to get married.
Don’t curse.
Don’t lie.
Don’t cheat.
Don’t steal.
Don’t drink.
Don’t, don’t, don’t.
The list of don’ts continues on and on and many of us have no idea exactly why we shouldn’t do those things. Much less a real heart conviction on our own.

That list of don’ts is an excellent list containing some excellent advice. That is if it’s viewed from the right perspective. If it’s not viewed from the right perspective, Christianity is nothing more than a rule book with checkboxes to mark off and good works to fulfill.  There are very good and Biblical reasons to avoid all of the above, and a Christian should avoid those things.

Over the years, I have come to understand the “why” behind the do’s and don’ts.

In Matthew, part of Jesus' great commission is to go out into all the world and lead others to Christ.   I have also learned that true evangelism is not always "doing", but praying.  Praying for opportunities to witness to people and praying for God to be working in the hearts of everyone we meet, even before we share the gospel.  Later on in the Bible, Paul states that "To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.  And this I do for the gospel's sake, that I might be partaker thereof with you."

Not all things a Christian does is rightly percieved.  Some believers are trying to minister to others, yet they have been "written off" by others or perhaps Christians take up a hobby that doesn't seem right to their Christian friends, but are then seen as "gone off the deep end".

Being mission minded is being made aware of the ultimate mission and goal, making Christ known.

Resting in the Sovereignty of God

          So often, we get caught up in the busy-ness of ourselves.  If we aren't caught up in ourselves, it may be ministry or simply getting our life in "order".  It seems we're busy with anything but God and resting in our relationship with Him.  Oswald chambers said:

          "It is never do, do, with the Lord, but be, be and He will do through you."

           There are always times a believer needs to rest in our relationship with God, but more specifically,  in times of busy-ness and times of discouragement.

          Usually, there is an apathy that accompanies our busy-ness, whether it be in ministry or self.  Being busy in the ministry is, of course needful, but at the same time, it is needful to rest in the knowledge that God will grow a ministry or work through a ministry, in His time and according to His will.  Sometimes we put too much pressure on ourselves to get the results in ministry that we think should be there.  In our thinking, when that doesn't happen,  we logically conclude that we have to do more, because obviously what we're doing isn't enough, instead of resting in the truth that God is sovereign.  Always has been, still is, and always will be.  We are commanded to be good and faithful stewards,  however, being busy can sort of blind us from resting and to "be still and know".  We are only human and have to remember that our bodies need rest and replenishment. But much more important than that is to rest in the sovereignty of Almighty God, to do what He will, in His time, and being led by Him. Too much activity, or "do, do" as Oswald Chambers said,  can and eventually will burn us out.  In Exodus 18 and specifically verses 17-23, Jethro advises his son in law to not do so much.  The context is that Moses was trying to be a mediator between the people and God, but the point is that he placed too much responsibility on himself.  Verse 18 is probably a key verse for this context.  Jethro tells Moses, "Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone."  God is sovereign over the results of a ministry and also will guide and lead in the amount of activity.   To rest in the sovereignty of God also assures to prevent burning out (otherwise we won't be of use to God).

           It is also human nature to think we need to better our lives.  It's human nature to create our own happiness in life, mainly by doing what our flesh enjoys.  Wherever a believer is in this life is right where the Lord wants them, whether it is fully surrendered over to God or in a season of backsliding.   God is still sovereign regardless of what we may think about ourselves, lives, or our current state.   Resting in the sovereignty of God brings with it an inexplicable peace and comfort.    The Lord is sovereign over the timing of everything in the believers life. 

            In 2 Corinthians 4:8, Paul says that "We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;". 

           The passage that comes to mind is in Acts 16 where Paul and Silas are wrongfully imprisoned.   Their circumstances were, quite literally,  discouraging, both physically and mentally, I'm sure.  Verse 25 states that they were singing praise to God, and praying, at midnight, (probably a time when, physiologically and mentally,  they would be the weakest.)  In other words, these men were resting in God's sovereignty, giving them an inexplicable peace and comfort.   It's definitely hard to imagine that situation,  but no situation is dire enough for the Lord. 

         The Psalmist said "He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings."

Unity in the bond of Peace

Christians can so easily get caught up in the work of the ministry.  Of course there is tons of work to do, but is it right to disregard our testimony to others?
This reminds me of the one another verses throughout the Bible: Receive one another as in Romans 15:7, Admonish one another as in Romans 15:14 and Colossians 3:16 and Submit yourselves one to another as in Ephesians 5:21and I Peter 5:6.  In the midst of all the work of the ministry, it is needful to be reminded of these verses, often. The church is also God's program for this age of Grace, but there seems to be less and less interest in learning what the Bible says or even serving God. 

In Romans 15, God commands us to receive one another.  This is similar to the idea of receiving a gift from someone.   I remember as a kid at Christmas time that I got gifts that I didn't want or like, but because of who it was from, I had to teach myself to receive that gift with thanksgiving.   Everyone that is called by God, whatever role it is, needs to be received (and will always be received by God) or need to receive others.  In other words, all Christians need to receive there fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, disregarding the role in which we are called to serve, either a pastor to the congregants or the congregants to a pastor.

Later on in the same chapter, there is a command to admonish.a. There is a LOT of work LOT that goes into the ministry, both physical activity and spiritual exercises.  The Greek word for admonish is to warn and no one likes to be warned of potential dangers.  It is usually taken as very critical, however, if Biblical, very necessary.  Romans 15:14 speaks of admonishing one another, but Colossians 3:16 is a little more detailed.  God exhorts us to admonish every man, in all wisdom (consistent with Col. 1:28).  Of course, God's Word is where wisdom is found and, specifically,  the fear of the Lord is the beginning of all  wisdom.   Back to Romans 15, which seems to indicate that all  believers are able to admonish a brother or sister, not just dependant on a believers role in ministry.

Lastly,  believers are commanded to submit.  This is hard for anyone, not just believers.   Yes, we are told to submit to others, but when caught up in the work of the ministry,  we want things to be done "our" way.  The busier we are, it seems the more blinded we are of the bigger picture, which of course, is leading to, and teaching others more of, Christ.  Ephesians 5:21 is a powerful verse and reminds us to submit one to another, regardless of our ministry role, in the fear of God.  As was mentioned earlier,  the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, all wisdom.  The Lord will gives us wisfom, even when submitting. Because ultimately,  it is God we are to submit to. 

There is another command found in Ephesians,  the command to endeavor or strive to keep unity.  There is so much involved with keeping unity among believers, especially when working in ministry.  Sometimes Christians overlook some areas of life in order for unity, but  when God's word is in question in a situation, of course we should obey God's Word. For life issues in the lives of our brothers and sisters,  unity is of prime importance.  God has a reason for brothers and sister to strive for peaceful unions.  According to this verse, with peace comes unity and to become a disunity because of life issues, disunity is also in disregard to all points previously mentioned.

Man's control or God's leading?

          Christians feel the need to look out for each other and, of course, rightly so.  There are times of struggle when other Christians supply temporary physical needs, like food or otherwise. 

          That often overlaps into other areas where a situation needs to be left for God to control, and He does.  For instance,  the time in someone's life when God brings someone along side.  This person may or may not be the lifelong partner God has for them, but only God knows that and will point that out, in His time. 

           Christians give the impression that they need to be in control, in almost every area of life and, even though this may not be there intent, it can clearly be represented by the way we talk, especially when stating things like " I'm going to drill this person to make sure they're the right one for him/her." or blatant untrust in Christ as seen in statements like "I don't like this and they need to break up."   Christians may feel like they are just giving advice or having a friendly discussion,  however all too often Christians who think they are better than other Christians, most often and perhaps because they may have more experience in a certain situation, very easily can give the impression of wanting to control that part of someone else's life.  God will work it out and point out the necessary issues of contention in a situation, but GOD will do that, and in His time.  Very often when 2 Christians court, neither of them really make it known at first, most likely because they know everyone else will try to tell them how the Holy Spirit will lead them along, and it comes across as they'll know the Lord's leading "only when they do what me and my husband/wife did", instead of trusting and letting God work in the situation.

         Another situation where control is easily perceived is in ministry.   There is definitely a lot of work that needs to be done in ministry, but it is GOD that controls the growth and also the amount of activity.  So, how do you know how much activity there should be?   Of course, by the leading of the Holy Spirit, but in addition to that, people have limitations and their own personal convictions regarding ministry.  On one hand, some Christians want to always be serving the Lord, in as many different ways as possible and on the other hand, some Christians only serve in a few different ways, and focus on being faithful in that few. At this point,  it's a matter of interpretation of being faithful in 1 Corinthians 4:2.  The control becomes apparent when the one of these Christian seeks to regulate the other Christian's service.

         More specifically, in Ephesians 4:11-12 describes some of the different ministry roles that God calls believers to.  Pastors, teachers, laborers, and edification.  Not every believer is a teacher, or pastor, or can edify, or is a laborer.  Should believers simply assume that they, or another believer, possess all of these? The word "some" in the Greek, means just that.  God gave some to be teachers, preachers, laborers,  etc.

          I know a dear brother in Christ that was very much the edification role.  He was easy to talk to and gave Godly advice and would also put an arm around you quite often.  However, he was not really of the laborer role.  God had revealed to him that he could and is a great person for the edification of the saints. 

          Of course there are many other areas of ministry and service that believers are called to, but not all believers are called to a certain ministry and not every believer is called to fill all the roles found in the Scriptures.   There is balance in the Scriptures, which needs to be emulated in the Body of Christ.