When sharing the gospel with people of other religions, it is important that we are kind and sensitive to their beliefs. Be culturally sensitive, but do not shy away from sharing your faith, remembering that the gospel is for everybody. Be aware that you will suffer from opposition. Renounce all that you have, being willing to bear your cross and lose your life for the sake of the gospel (Luke 9:23-26,14:33, Matthew 10:37-39).
We must humble ourselves and meet people at their level of understanding. In demonstrating love, we may observe some of their customs and traditions that are not antithetical to our faith (1 Corinthians 9:19-23). This must be done without compromising the message of the gospel, with the desire that as we serve them, they may believe.
Learning from Paul in Athens:
Know their beliefs.
Acts 17:16 – Now while Paul was waiting for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him as he saw that the city was full of idols.
While staying in Athens, Paul observed that its citizens practised idolatry. The city was swarming with idols. One in particular caught the apostle’s attention – that which was inscribed “to an unknown god” (Acts 17:23). From this, Paul inferred that the Athenians were a religious people, but oblivious of whom they were looking for in their hand-crafted idols.
Acknowledge what is commendable.
Paul started his speech by commending the people to whom he was witnessing. In stating “I perceive that in every way you are very religious” (vs 22), he broke any barriers of hostility which may have existed and met them at their level of understanding.
Challenge the assumptions and reveal the truth.
Paul proceeded to challenge their assumptions, revealing to them the falsity of their gods and the reality of the Creator, Yahweh to whom they were all accountable (vs 23-30). Paul then arrived at the crux of his message, issuing a call to repentance and casting the spotlight upon the person, work and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to evangelism. However, looking at the manner in which Paul became all things to all men, we have a useful framework by which we may engage those of different religions.
Islam case Study
Know their beliefs: Jesus is a prophet, not God the Son (God incarnate).
Acknowledge what is commendable: the respect afforded to Jesus as an esteemed prophet.
Challenge the assumptions and reveal the truth: If Jesus is just a prophet, why does he declare the names of God for himself, perform acts which only God can do and receive the glory of God?
Reflection questions:
- Do you know some of the most fundamental beliefs of some of the most popular world religions?
- Are you confident in engaging with people from these religions?