How Persuasive Should We Be?

When we share our story, we know that the person needs really needs Jesus. And we want them to accept Him right now. We don't want them to go another minute without Him in their lives.

However, part of our respecting the individual and showing gentleness to them (1 Peter 3:15) is allowing them time to really think about this life-altering decision. When an individual has lived 15, 30, or even 40 or more years without Christ, we shouldn't become upset when they don't make an instant decision to accept Jesus the moment we share our story. I once read that some studies are showing that on average, an unsaved person will attend a church for over a year before they really make a decision to follow Christ.

It is important that we remember that it is not our responsibility to persuade people to make a decision. The Holy Spirit will do His work in their lives and draw them to God's amazing love. We don't have to push anyone into making the decision. The Holy Spirit will woo (how's that for a really old-fashioned word) them. The Spirit is an accomplished persuader, having successfully persuaded millions of people throughout the course of history to put their trust and faith in Jesus Christ. The Spirit is much better at drawing people to Christ than I am. Again, my responsibility is to tell the story...the Spirit's responsibility is to draw all men to God.

I like the example Rick Warren uses: "What if you went to a restaurant and the waiter stood at your table demanding that you order steak. 'You must have steak, and you must have it right now. Today is the appointed day of steak! If you don't have steak today, you might never get another chance to have steak again!" Would you trust a waiter who tried to pressure you into having steak? Of course not. You want time to look at the menu and make your own choice."

Each of us, individually, makes the choice to accept or reject the good news of the Gospel. Recognizing that we are not responsible to persuade people concerning the choice ought to relieve the pressure and fear that so many of us feel about witnessing. If we share the story...we are successful. It is up to the individual to decide what they will do with the story. Let's respect their right to make their decision and be gentle with them as we encourage them to make that decision.