I have avoided missional conversations with strangers and family members because I was afraid of what they would think of me, not of what I thought they would think of Christ. In these moments, I forsake Jesus and put myself in his place. Not talking to people about the most important thing in the world is set aside because of my own selfishness and insecurity.
Here are a few thoughts that address this weak-hearted, wrong-headed way of conversing (or not conversing) with others, ways to evangelize our own fears.
God opens hearts, not arguments. Neil Cole has a saying: “Wherever you go, the King goes, and where the King goes, people bow.” In other words, King Jesus woos and wins people, not well-honed apologetics. I need to face my fears with faith in the King who opens hearts and renews minds.
Don’t win the argument; speak with compassionate truth-telling.” This saying reminds me to open my heart and my mouth when talking to others, being alert to the needs of others that the gospel of compassion can fit into and channeling my energy in that direction.
You have an AK-47, use it. If you showed up to a medieval sword dual with an AK-47, you wouldn’t be afraid or doubt who would win. Others might think you were crazy, even mock you, but your weapon would secure a win. Although I don’t like the destructive metaphor, this does remind me that when I talk to others “all authority and power” is in the gospel, which is mighty to save.