Reflective Evangelism
The human race is no doubt getting more sophisticated. With information technology breaking new grounds each month, it pushes the borders of communication into an almost infinite dimensions like never before. Marketing brilliance pushes new concepts and ideas to the people at break-neck speeds. People are more well-informed and have myriad of choices at an unprecendented levels like never before. What this also means is that people have moved from the "tell-me" to the "show-me" mentality. Shareholders are no longer satisfied with blueprints, but are more interested in implementation plans that translates into shareholder value. Consumers want to be demonstrated the value and sustainable benefits of whatever they are buying into. Citizens want tangible results from the government that they elect into power.
Likewise, the "show-me" mentality applies to spiritual sphere. Rattling off Bible verses and vocally proclaiming in the streets that "Jesus loves you" is no longer cutting edge. Dangerously enough, the surging of new age teachings with demonstrative results to boast have appealing effects. What are we doing in response for the sake of Christ? You may argue that most of us are no Billy Grahams and the thought of evangelism is quite daunting. But Jesus has called all of us to proclaim the gospel. So, the responsibility does not only lie on full-time workers to be front-runners of the gospel. As everyday Christians, we need to realise that the evangelical powerhouse lies within our own Christians livelihood : 1) lifestyle that you lead and 2) the life message that you bring.
Your livelihood hinges heavily on the fact that you love God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind, and that you love others as you love yourself. When these basics are right in place, it radiates through your lifestyle. Your mannerisms, habits, blessings, financial stewardship, relational skills, and the choices that you make reflect how well you uphold these commandments. Your lifestyle speaks volume louder than mere words. Your lifestyle compels people.
Every borned-again Christian has a story to tell. Some may not be the nicest to tell. Most would agree that life in itself is sometimes not the most pleasant thing to endure. We stumble and make mistakes. But there is always the element of Jesus in each of these stories that gives the aura of difference which compels. That makes up the life message that you bring. People need to know that it is alright to stumble. People need to know there is forgiveness and reconciliation. People need to know there is something worthwhile to look forward to. You live message gives hope to people.
The MSG translation of 1Th 1:18 goes like this : Your lives are echoing the Master's Word...The news of your faith in God is out. We don't even have to say anything anymore - you're the message! By striving righteous livelihood, we are rendering ourselves as a polished mirror that reflects the glory of Christ. It is a foolproof method of evangelism that defeats the "no-action-talk-only" hypocrisy. It is reflective evangelism.
posted by Mel-Vern @ 2:00 AM
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