Evangelizing Unbelievers or Stumbling Them?

We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. (1 Cor. 6:3)

Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God. (2 Cor. 10:32)

But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. (1 Pet. 3:15-16)

One of the most effective means of evangelism is to keep from stumbling unbelievers. Read how Paul does it:

Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown; dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing everything. (2 Cor. 6:4-10)

Amazing, isn’t it! Are we willing to apply this list in our lives so that people will be saved? It is easy to stumble unbelievers. We can do that without trying. If we live godly lives in Christ Jesus, we will suffer persecution (2 Tim. 3:12), but the persecutor will feel ashamed because of his slander.

Comments

Anonymous said…

Is the verse referenced at the end meant to be 2 Timothy 3:12?

1:53 PM

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