So I’ve been reading Rick Warren’s book, Purpose Driven Church: Every Church Is Big in God’s Eyes, and two things Rick said really stood out to me.
It’s about talking to people about Jesus.
Here’s what Rick first said:
“Jesus began at the level of commitment of each person he met. Often he would simply capture their interest and create a desire to know more.”
You don’t need to use big fancy words, or even be a know-it-all when it comes to sharing the Gospel. What you need to do is capture people’s interest and then create a desire for them to want to know more.
This reminds me of what Paul says about planting the seeds and Apollos watering the seeds, and then God makes it grow. It’s our job to capture people’s interest and create the desire, while God makes it grow in their hearts!
Here’s the second thing Rick said:
“Jesus took into account that people have different cultural backgrounds, understanding, and levels of spiritual commitment. He knew that it doesn’t work to use the same approach with all people.”
I love this. What works on one person may not work on another person. You’re not going to talk to a believer the same way you’re going to talk to an atheist. Likewise, you’re not going to talk to an atheist the same way you’re going to talk to a seeker. Right?
So remember… capture someone’s attention, create desire for them to want to know more, and don’t use the same approach on everyone!
Now let that soak into your noggin’!