Reflecting the Heat Back
Theme of the Week: When Asking Beats Telling
Tuesday, June 7, 2005
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: Let me ask you a question first … . Did John's baptism come from heaven, or was it merely human? (Luke 20:3-4). Bonus Reading: Luke 20:1-8
At a dorm-room Bible study, the host's antagonistic roommate showed up—along with a handful of likeminded friends. "I suppose you think all those sincere followers of other religions are going to hell!" said one, more as an attack than a sincere inquiry.
"Do you believe in hell?" I responded.
After a puzzled silence, he said, "No. I don't believe in hell. I think it's ridiculous."
Echoing his word choice, I said, "Then why are you asking me such a ridiculous question?" I wanted him to honestly examine the assumptions behind his question. His face indicated that he was considering issues of judgment and God's righteousness for the first time in his life.
Another guy chimed in, "I do believe in hell. Do you think everyone who disagrees with you is going there?"
I asked, "Do you think anyone goes there? Is Hitler in hell?"
"Of course, Hitler's in hell."
"How do you think God decides who goes to heaven and who goes to hell? Does He grade on a curve?"
From there, the discussion turned civil, and serious interaction about God's holiness, people's sinfulness, and Jesus' atoning work ensued.
—Randy Newman in Questioning Evangelism
My Response: Do I really need to know all the answers to represent the gospel?
Thought to Apply: Learn what questions non–Christians are asking (some indirectly), and what to ask to move the conversation in a Christ–ward direction.—RANDY NEWMAN
Adapted from Questioning Evangelism (Kregel, 2004) by permission.
Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine. Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity. 1 of 1
Lord, help me share the Good News in a less cut-and-dried manner, softening hearts through relational give-and-take.
Men of Integrity
Connect with God | Transform my Mind | Live by His Power
Relate Better | Make an Impact
Home | Archives | Contact Us
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
Try an Issue of Men of Integrity
Free!
|
 |
|
No credit card required. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery. Offer valid in U.S. only. Click here for International orders.
If you decide you want to keep Men of Integrity coming, honor your invoice for just $19.95 and receive five more issues, a full year in all. If not, simply write "cancel" across the invoice and return it. The trial issue is yours to keep, regardless.
Give Men of Integrity as a gift
Buy 1 gift subscription, get 1 FREE!
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
| 
