Christian Living

Effective Evangelism

by John Custer
07/06/20
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I sat in the barber’s chair with the cape around me when the barber started telling about his current Sunday School lesson. He had some info that he was going to share, and I was going to hear it whether I wanted to or not!  Forcing me to listen to his agenda was not a good strategy!  He did not promote his Sunday School class nor his Barber Shop very well so I never went back.

There is a more effective way to share Christ which revolves around love.  As a funeral director, I have heard the following frequently, “You must have many opportunities to tell people about Christ.”  Each time I heard that, I cringed because it was only partially true.  The people needing my services were quite vulnerable. Taking advantage of them at that time was not my plan.  My plan was different, although I was delighted to share Christ with anyone who expressed interest.

Here’s an example.  A family called me to arrange a funeral for their infant.  They were obviously devastated.  During the arrangement session I asked who they wanted to officiate for the service.  They looked at each other in bewilderment then commented, “We don’t go to church and don’t know any minister.  Do you have a suggestion?”

“I could ask my minister,” I suggested.  They agreed.  I tried to be as caring and non-condemning as I could.  My pastor also spoke so tenderly of God’s love for their baby.  The passage in Matthew 25:40 (NIV) “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you have done it for me,” was never more appropriate.

Sitting in church shortly after the funeral, I noticed the same family that I had just served filling a pew near me.  They continued to attend and take leadership roles.  

Which was the most effective way to communicate Christ?  Reflect on how you communicate Christ. Can you be more effective?  Effectively communicating is far better than just communicating!

“Lord, help me to be more effective.”

Sharing Christ is my purpose and passion.