Persuasion

Acts 28:23-24 provides us a great example of the next “P” of evangelism,

So when they had appointed him a day, many came to him at his lodging, to whom he explained and solemnly testified of the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus from both the Law of Moses and the Prophets, from morning till evening. And some were persuaded by the things which were spoken, and some disbelieved.

Some people are going to need to be persuaded, they are going to need more than proclamation, because they are honestly grappling with questions that need to be dealt with. Those questions are like roadblocks in front of them that will need to be removed so they can advance and embrace the gospel.

They may have questions like, “Well, why can’t other religions save? Why does Jesus have to be the only way?” Or, “What’s this deal about the Jews? Why did the Savior have to come from the Jews?” Or it may be, “What about people who don’t hear? How could it be fair that they would perish?”

When people have questions like these, they are genuinely seeking answers, so give them Biblical reasons. If you don’t have an answer, tell them you don’t know. Say, “You know what? That’s a good question, and I don’t know the answer. But I’m going to find one for you.” Then go study your Bible and find the answer.

Or go to the Bible bookstore and find a book that deals with that subject. Or ask a Christian friend who knows more than you do and find an answer. Then go back to the person and give them an answer.

You will find that when you give people legitimate Scriptural answers, they will respond and often be saved.