This post was mentioned on Twitter by coffeewithmarty: RT @Nick_theGeek: My ways are not your ways http://goo.gl/fb/78g2 My Experience As a #all #jesusfreak #youthpastor…

I agree, I love watching how Jesus talks to people in the gospels. He never beats them up but somehow has all the right words to change their lives. I think it is because he values people who are cast out by society.

Having been in the hospital for extended times with 3 of my kids I can totally relate to the relationships that are formed in the waiting room. Relationships are so important.

Also, not too long, very good.

I have to admit that I lack in personal evangelism. I’ll look into the series you mentioned. Thanks.

I feel much the same way when presented with a “formula” but that is one thing I liked about this book. It really isn’t that formulaic but instead focuses on issues of what evangelism is and isn’t while presenting life habits that will encourage witnessing. I do want to show the group formulas and different approaches to evangelism. I think we are unique people and for some of us that works, but more importantly I want them to experience what it is like to try and use those approaches when it isn’t really who they are.

How do I tell people the Good News? When sitting in the Intensive Care Waiting Room while Mom was there, I’ve talked with others who were worried for their loved ones, and themselves. Sometimes I’d ask if they want pray together. Other times I would just tell how glad I am to have God watching over us and let their questions take it from there. At a party, if someone mentions a “How could God allow _______ to happen”, I’d share that God doesn’t cause disaster, but redemption. Of course, that becomes a full blown discussion, rather than a pat answer.

The challenge is to be in a place spiritually where this conversation flows naturally rather than from a formula. When people have Jesus shared with them in a natural rather than formulaic manner, they are more likely to respond with “I wish I believed that” than with “Man, you are crazy.” Not that “natural” is the new “formula”. People have the ability to choose God or not. The challenge is to treat them as people with God given dignity . But most (not all) people who are treated with dignity, respond in kind.

Oh, and these conversations aren’t a one time only thing. They are an investment. If you know the person, they will come to you over and over sometimes before their heart is ready. And if you don’t know the person, be willing to get to know them. Otherwise, odds are unlikely that this is someone they should be sharing with. Not that I don’t believe in the Holy Spirit moving someone to share with a stranger. I’ve seen it happen. But most of the time, I think we are called to share in relationships we are already in.

Too long? Whoopsi.

I love how God comes up with ideas for us that we didn’t even think existed… I love how He intertwines everything and connects all the dots…and we didn’t even know we were in the midst of a connect-the-dots picture.

I think talking with them and finding out what they really want in life and see how Jesus can fulfill that.