As Christians, we are told, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.” (I Peter 3:15) I’m learning that I need to be prepared to give a question as well.
Seeking to be a witness for Jesus on campus, in my neighborhood, and anywhere God might provide an opportunity, I have studied numerous evangelism resources and techniques. Even still, I lacked the confidence ‘to give an answer to everyone for the hope I have in Christ.’ Fears of being ejected, getting into arguments, or failing to be persuasive kept me from engaging in spiritual conversations.
In a recent Faculty Commons’ small group study of the book God Space by Doug Pollock, I was struck with many “aha moments” that have helped me reframe the pressure to “give an answer.” In Chapter 5 of God Space, Mr. Pollock describes the practice of Spirit-led listening for effective evangelism, which requires a quieted spirit, ready to listen first before providing a response.
Instead of readily providing answers, the book encourages us to create “God Space” through thoughtful questions that allow us to build a deeper connection with the other person. I realized my mind was so focused on giving an answer, I often didn’t really see or hear the person in front of me. Instead, I was focused on finding just the right opportunity to deliver the Four Spiritual Laws, or pull out my Bible for them and read John 3:16, or walk them down the Roman’s Road. But often, the fears mentioned above kept me silent.
“I’m willing to bet the farm that in our postmodern Christian society, the most important evangelistic skill is listening.”
Reading this quote from Todd Hunter, I felt a twinge of guilt, followed by a tremendous sense of excitement. I could do that!
Instead of fretting about just the right moment and just the right words to share the gospel, I could learn to ask good questions that show I care and that I’m listening. It is in that moment of seeking first to understand before seeking to be heard or understood that “God Space” is created.
From my own life experiences, I know this to be true. By asking thoughtful questions and really listening to the other person, I am more relaxed, and a door is opened to trust and relationship. It is in the context of trusting relationships that people share struggles and deeper questions with hearts that are open.
After a time of asking, “I am wondering if…” or, “Tell me more about…” and listening with respect and empathy (rather than planning my response), connections are created. It is in that God Space that I can share the reason for the hope I have in the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Pat Cwiek
Health Professions
Central Michigan University