The People Had A Mind To Work - part 5

There are a number of important things we must remember when seeking to convert lost souls. Perhaps first and foremost is that our lives reflect the genuineness of our faith. Paul wrote Titus that some "profess to know God, but in works they deny Him" (Titus 1:16). Our message is only as convincing as the life we live. Paul defended his message to the Corinthians based in part upon his conduct before them and the world (2 Cor. 1:12).

Another thing we must keep before us is the presence of Christ. When we go in the name of the Lord, we do not go alone! Jesus gave that comfort to the eleven when He promised to be with them always, even unto the end of the world (Matt. 28:20). Mark 16:20 confirms the presence of the Lord as those men worked miracles to confirm the word they preached. Of course, we neither have nor need such powers today as the Bible is the confirmed Word of God. In addition, Jesus is not present physically with us today, having ascended into heaven (Acts 1:11). However, in Revelation 1:20, Jesus said the seven candlesticks were the seven churches of Asia. In the very next verse (2:1), Jesus said He walked among the seven churches. Thus, Jesus is ever present with His church in spirit through His omniscience and omnipresence.

Also, when attempting to set up or conduct a Bible study, it is vitally important to show genuine love and concern for the person we are trying to teach. We are trying to initiate a change in the one with whom we are studying, a change that will forever change one's life and affect one's eternal destiny. At the same time, we must also remember that the teaching of the gospel will be offensive to some. Always maintain a positive attitude when people reject the gospel. Though one rejects the saving message of Christ, we must still treat each with respect and dignity. Do not become angry or bitter toward them. Do not take the rejection personally. Remember! Jesus did not convert everyone He taught (Matt. 19:16-24). In fact, the number who rejected Him greatly exceeded the number who accepted him. Many of Jesus disciples failed to follow through in their obedience and followed him no more (John 6:66). It may be that you will have another opportunity to teach later on, so don't burn any bridges.

During the course of a study, never allow the study to digress into an argument. Such only serves to heighten tensions and create barriers to communication. People are rarely taught by being placed on the defensive. You might well win the argument but lose the soul. If you sense things heating up, change the subject or conclude the study for the time being. Tell the person you will continue to study the matter further on the condition that they will study as well. Tell him the verses you will be studying and invite him to direct you to some passages to which he will refer. Be honest; if you tell him you will study, then keep your word. It may be that you do not know as much about the subject as you thought. During your study, you may find a better way to approach the discussion. You might find out that you are wrong! If so, admit your error. Nothing builds confidence like honesty.

The easiest way to maintain a proper attitude in conducting Bible studies is to put yourself in the other's place. Seek to understand before you seek to be understood. What may seem elementary to you may be hard for another to understand. (This is especially true when studying with one who is essentially a "Bible illiterate.") A doctrine which seems ridiculous to you may be a vital part of your prospect's faith and value system. Imagine someone coming to your house and telling you your understanding of the Bible was wrong. How would you feel? What if your parents or a loved one died while practicing the very thing condemned by the Bible? We must be both loving and tactful when dealing with others. The "Golden Rule" will go a long way in such situations. TC