Witnessing to those of Non Christian Faith

[abide]

Not sure if this topic was ever discussed here. Since the radical Muslims believe that infidels those who are not of Islam should be killed, how do we go about witnessing to them. Indians who are of the Hindu and other religions seems not all interested in changing their way of life.

I have notice from the small number of people of these faith who live here, there are very family oriented and do not mix. They have their stores and are willing for others to buy from them but they have no interest in the Christian religion.

There is a woman of African descent who lives in my neighbourhood. She pass the street on morning and just says good morning.

To try to witness in any of the Arab countries is definitely off limits. Even though we can see how evil the radicals are I feel a kind of pain to see them being deceived by the devil.

Your comments please.

 

[Eugene]

.
Dear Sister abide, your best testimony to any is the life you live for
Christ. Now we are sent out and even then with great care.

Mat 10:16 Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of
wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.

Mat 10:17 But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the
councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues;

Mat 10:18 And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for
My sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.

God in fairness to all must present them with truth, and how shall
they hear without a preacher (Rom 10:14), and this is not the one
standing in some pulpit though it could be, but you are. I’ve had
Muslims approach me when I worked to discuss God. Why me? I
spoke of God to many and my reputation preceded me.

When we speak for our Savior others are brought to us, or we as
Paul was sent to Fetus and Agrippa heard of him. Act 25:22 Then
Agrippa said unto Festus, I would also hear the man myself.

Act 26:28 Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me
to be a Christian. Too bad Agrippa, this encounter ended up to become
the testimony against you, and Paul blessed as the result.

 

[turnorburn]

The next time you see her you might ask her if she has the time to chat about Gods "Free Gift" of eternal life..

*edit: forgot this..

Have your bible close by with a maker on the page in Romans 6.. open it up and have her read this back to you..

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Then ask her to define the word gift.. and go from there.. Be all prayed up before you begin..

 

[dirtfarmer]

hello abide, dirtfarmer here

I agree with Eugene. The best testimony is a life lived for Christ. What is that old saying "Actions speak louder than words."

 

[JohnDB]

Cold witnessing is usually very unsuccessful.

If you were nothing but a visual acquaintance who one day begins to tell me that I live my life all wrong...I'm going to run away every time I see you regardless of what you are thinking. Especially if i have been warned by authority figures of how evil you are.

Subtlety is much more important here.

Why not make a friend?
Find common ground like sewing, knitting, cooking or whatever. Create a relationship between you two. The subject of religion will eventually come up. Then you can tell her what God has done for you. How wonderfully God has blessed you personally.

Then keep up the relationship. She will stew on the things you have said. She will try to poke holes in your testimony. So be careful. But live a life of devotion. Keep focused on your friendship with the things you have in common.
Even if she doesn't convert she won't hate you nor will she allow others to speak evil of you.

 

[Particular Baptist]

The Whabbists are generally those which see America as "Great Satan". If she is willing to speak with you, she may not be one of those; my Moslem neighbors are rather westernized.
You may wish to find out what language she speaks; if she speaks Arabic, get the van Dyck translation from Trinitarian Bible Society's webpage. The New Testament is available for only a couple of dollars. Find in the Koran where it says that the Bible is the inspired, revealed word of God, and you have a short door in. Ask them if they've ever read these writings; if they refuse to do so, you can point out that they are not being faithful to their Koran. Remember, the majority of Muslims do not agree with fundamentalism; yet though they have persecuted themselves for centuries under the guise of jihad. A knowledge of the profits is helpful, as well as the Old Testament, as they are heavily quoted in it, particularly the Mosaic law and seers.

 

[Particular Baptist]

hello abide, dirtfarmer here

I agree with Eugene. The best testimony is a life lived for Christ. What is that old saying "Actions speak louder than words."

Pray tell why Christ commanded us to go into the world to preach the gospel to all nations if this is so? Is it not written in Romans, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"? It is not the preaching that saves; the sovran act of the Holy Spirit (I Jn. 5) performs this action. While holy living is a necessity, see Matthew 5.48, it is no guarantee that one will initiate contact, or even come to the Lord Jesus based on the life of another. You must have forgotten that the sinners are blinded, such as the woman at the well, beholding Jesus knew not that he was the Son of man, until she was quickened to see in the fourth of John, neither could the blind man five chapters farther on.

 

[dirtfarmer]

Pray tell why Christ commanded us to go into the world to preach the gospel to all nations if this is so? Is it not written in Romans, "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God"? It is not the preaching that saves; the sovran act of the Holy Spirit (I Jn. 5) performs this action. While holy living is a necessity, see Matthew 5.48, it is no guarantee that one will initiate contact, or even come to the Lord Jesus based on the life of another. You must have forgotten that the centers are blinded, such as the woman at the well,beholding Jesus knew not that he was the Son of man, until she was quickened to see in the fourth of John, neither could the blind man five chapters farther on.

hello Particular Baptist, dirtfarmer here

I am assuming that you are referencing Matthew 28:19-20. I know that I shouldn't assume, but will continue on the premise that is what you are referring to.

To whom was Christ addressing we he spoke those words? We find the answer in verse 16; "Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them." So it was given to the "eleven" that were waiting on that mountain. Had the day of Pentecost come yet? It is my understanding that the "church" was established on Pentecost or some time later, depends on who you study. It is my belief based on what "the apostle" whom he had chosen(Acts 1"2), asked him in verse 6: "When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?"

While I agree that faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God, the assembling together(church) is not for saving souls, but for the strengthening of the believers. If all one ever hears in a service is" you need salvation", then how are the saints to grow in grace and truth? The assembling of the body of believers is for strengthening of the saints. We gather strength by hearing how God has worked in the lives of other when they face adversity from the world and their overcoming by their faith in them mighty workings of God. 1 Corinthians 14:16 the last clause states, " let all things be done unto edifying."

 

[Particular Baptist]

hello Particular Baptist, dirtfarmer here

I am assuming that you are referencing Matthew 28:19-20. I know that I shouldn't assume, but will continue on the premise that is what you are referring to.

To whom was Christ addressing we he spoke those words? We find the answer in verse 16; "Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into a mountain where Jesus had appointed them." So it was given to the "eleven" that were waiting on that mountain. Had the day of Pentecost come yet? It is my understanding that the "church" was established on Pentecost or some time later, depends on who you study. It is my belief based on what "the apostle" whom he had chosen(Acts 1"2), asked him in verse 6: "When they therefore were come together, they asked of him, saying, Lord, wilt thou at this time restore again the kingdom to Israel?"

While I agree that faith cometh by hearing and hearing by the word of God, the assembling together(church) is not for saving souls, but for the strengthening of the believers. If all one ever hears in a service is" you need salvation", then how are the saints to grow in grace and truth? The assembling of the body of believers is for strengthening of the saints. We gather strength by hearing how God has worked in the lives of other when they face adversity from the world and their overcoming by their faith in them mighty workings of God. 1 Corinthians 14:16 the last clause states, " let all things be done unto edifying."

Sir, you assume I mean the visible church house, which indeed is a consecrated assembly (Psalm 1) for the just only; however, while the Apostles did satisfy their initial commands in Matthew 28, Mark 15-6, Luke 24 and John's twentieth and twenty-first chapter, the gospeler is not wrong to quote these as his proof texts for witnessing. Pro. 11.30-1,

The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life; and he that winneth souls is wise. Behold, the righteous shall be recompensed in the earth: much more the wicked and the sinner.

The pastor never leaving what Paul called in Hebrews shortchanges his flock for a malaise spiritual malady most pervading today. That was not the intention of the post.

 

[LovethroughDove]

Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Our life in Christ should be our witness to them.

 

[smaller]

Not sure if this topic was ever discussed here. Since the radical Muslims believe that infidels those who are not of Islam should be killed, how do we go about witnessing to them. Indians who are of the Hindu and other religions seems not all interested in changing their way of life.

I have witnessed to a few Muslims. Not many, but a few. I try to meet them on their favorite ground. LEGALISM. And have had some very enjoyable and quite lively "discussions" about this particular subject.

Of course this eventually leads to the differences between "external legalism" and what Jesus defined as "the problem," that being "internal evil" is built in to nature of man, which being "legal" in the external senses of observations can not reach.

Then the topic often turns to even more interesting subjects like GODS MERCY.

There is a LOT of common ground here for witnessing of Christ, if one is looking for it. One of the first strikes I might make is that in Christianity there is no such animal as "self" justifications. Even if a person is legal on the outside it does not mean they do not struggle with internal evil, NOR can they "honestly" say they can rid themselves of internal evil in "evil thoughts." This is called "honesty."

And that is usually what I leave them with, if they can bear the truth of that sight. It is the Spirit of Christ that will need to bring "honest conviction." I will say that God in Christ does teach us not to be dishonest about internal evil defiling thoughts, and that putting on a show on the outside is not the measures that God in Christ Employs, because He Looks upon the heart for what it really is, and won't be fooled by anyone.

You might very well be surprised at their grasp of these subject matters, and how close they really are to what many christians believe as well. It's fertile territory. How one might be led from these points, if conversations ever get that far, may vary. I have found personal honesty to be a great tool for breaking down witnessing barriers. ymmv, depending on how transparent you are on these subjects and how you yourself view them for yourself. What is the "present value" of Christ to you personally will come into play in your witnessing.

IF the personal intentions between the parties lands on mutual condemnation, then no common ground will be located.

If on the other hand, you keep your own GOAL POST set on Romans 13:8-10, you may find Christ to be A Firm Ally in your personal witnessing, and you won't leave a littered battle field behind you.

 

[dirtfarmer]

Sir, you assume I mean the visible church house, which indeed is a consecrated assembly (Psalm 1) for the just only; however, while the Apostles did satisfy their initial commands in Matthew 28, Mark 15-6, Luke 24 and John's twentieth and twenty-first chapter, the gospeler is not wrong to quote these as his proof texts for witnessing. Pro. 11.30-1,

The pastor never leaving what Paul called in Hebrews shortchanges his flock for a malaise spiritual malady most pervading today. That was not the intention of the post.

hello Particular Baptist, dirtfarmer here

As to Proverbs 11:30-31, how many "souls' have you won during the time that your pastor is preaching? Or if you are a pastor, how many of your congregates have "won souls" while you are preaching.

I hear a lot of people that states that Paul wrote Hebrews; what is it that gives you the indication that Paul was the author of Hebrews?

 

[Particular Baptist]

Men do not win souls. I Timothy 6.20-21. Men simply declare what God the Father decreed, and do so in obedience to commands aforementioned; there is no sound church in this vicinity in this papal bastion with its parishes, not counties. Moreover, the invisible Church began in Matthew 16.18, not at the second chapter of Acts; in fact, Stephen remarks of the church in the wilderness in the seveth chapter. You must be a full preterist.
Good day.

 

[Brother Mike]

The Witness Machine is Broken
​

Everyone believes in something greater than themselves. No matter if they are professing atheist and hate all religions. Their system, their education, their doing things in certain orders, their membership to select clubs, their amazing understanding of science. I hear atheist talk about new breakthroughs in medicine that will save them. They admit it or not, they are looking for those breakthroughs to rescue them if needed.

Those that follow other gods, or some spiritual unity with the universe and all things seek something they presume bigger than them to help solve problems.

As Christians, we have to ask ourselves, what do we really have to offer and what are we bringing to the table?

Even living a godly life in front of them day to day, often they think "how nice, they follow what they believe, that is good" It's often not enough to get them to stop trusting in what they believe in. They made it this far, why change.

What do we have then? Tell them about eternal life, skipping Hell? Most could care less and are wrapped up in current issues, problems, relationships to care what is coming years later.

I got one!​

I got a person who always noticed that no matter what was going on, I was not moved and had peace, in fact got a couple this way. Sadly, the others only saw me as someone to come to for advice, nothing else. A few did want the peace I had in Jesus though. Not a landslide of souls saved, but better two than none.

The show stopper​

What happens when we bring Jesus and the Power of His anointing He had the Father send? Now we have scripture, the power of the Word and the Power to back it. Most the time believes just bring the word, they leave faith and power tucked away in the land of a mysterious god, and it all has passed away garbage. We are the Sons and Daughters of the most high, All power and authority was given to Jesus and He gave it right back to his body. I get excited thinking about it.

One really known crazy guy kept coming in the shelter I was staying (Part of Parole) and He was nuts. All the other men avoided him. Well, one day the Lord asked me to go fix the issue, so I walked out and in front of everyone I threw that spirit out. Easy stuff, since all we have to do is believe and obey, nothing else required. Not only was I able to talk with the man who was moments ago crazy and screaming for an hour and get his things settled, I had the attention of 30 other men for 3 hours who listened to me intently and many gave their life to Jesus. Next thing, it was nothing but praying for them and bible study daily.

One time I was trying to get a long pan of boiling veggies down from a top steam rack in a cafeteria. To everyone's horror the rack came apart and that large pan of boiling water went all over my arm. I had like 5 guys rush over to me trying to get me to a sink, but I said stop, just stop. In the name of Jesus, my arm is fine, no big deal guys. They waited for all the skin to come off, but nothing.

2 guys in that Wicca nonsense and 1 Muslim came to Jesus that day and the word got out so that brought lots of other folks in for prayer and stuff. (God did not cause the pan to fall, that was the devil, but I made him eat it)

The stories go on, but the point is our God is bigger than what they believe in, and sadly you can't tell by the unbelief of Christians today.

Mat_4:24 And his fame went throughout all Syria: and they brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the palsy; and he healed them.

Luk 4:36 And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves, saying, What a word is this! for with authority and power he commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out.
Luk 4:37 And the fame of him went out into every place of the country round about.

Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your faith be it unto you. And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged them, saying, See that no man know it. But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his fame in all that country.
(Mat 9:29-31)

So before you think about witnessing, ask yourself what are you bringing with you. Some memorized scriptures? Some Jesus tracks about eternal life and avoiding hell?

As Peter said to the beggar. Silver and Gold, have I none, but what I do have, I give to you, in the Name of Jesus, rise and walk.

Mike out............

 

[turnorburn]

Matthew 5:16 In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.

Our life in Christ should be our witness to them.

That's true but we mustn't forget..

Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

 

[LovethroughDove]

That's true but we mustn't forget..

Romans 10:14 How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?

15 And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!

16 But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias saith, Lord, who hath believed our report?

17 So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

Hi there turnorburn. I knew someone would bring up this scripture when I posted. That is okay. Everyone I am around do know the gospel (they may not act like it, but they do) Now I am just letting my light shine.

I believe we are almost at the Mattthew 24:14 phase.

 

[dirtfarmer]

Men do not win souls. I Timothy 6.20-21. Men simply declare what God the Father decreed, and do so in obedience to commands aforementioned; there is no sound church in this vicinity in this papal bastion with its parishes, not counties. Moreover, the invisible Church began in Matthew 16.18, not at the second chapter of Acts; in fact, Stephen remarks of the church in the wilderness in the seveth chapter. You must be a full preterist.
Good day.

hello Particular Baptist, dirtfarmer here

So, am I to understand that you believe that the Church was built on "Petros" a small stone rather that "petra" a massive cliff, before Christ was crucified? Christ stated " I will build", translated from the greek word oikodomeso is a verb, future, indicative active, singular. Are you saying that the church is built on Peter, a little stone, and not Christ, the chief cornerstone, and when spoken to Peter, was still in the future?

I understand Ekklesia as a called out assembly. In Acts 19:39 was that "lawful assembly" church or a town hall meeting? The "church in the wilderness" was those that were "called out" of Egypt, not Church as we understand today.

Why the accusations of being a preterist because I don't believe as you do? I do not believe the prophecies of Daniel were fulfilled in the 2nd century BC, nor do I believe the prophecies of Revelation happened during the 1st century AD.

 

[Particular Baptist]

hello Particular Baptist, dirtfarmer here

So, am I to understand that you believe that the Church was built on "Petros" a small stone rather that "petra" a massive cliff, before Christ was crucified? Christ stated " I will build", translated from the greek word oikodomeso is a verb, future, indicative active, singular. Are you saying that the church is built on Peter, a little stone, and not Christ, the chief cornerstone, and when spoken to Peter, was still in the future?

I understand Ekklesia as a called out assembly. In Acts 19:39 was that "lawful assembly" church or a town hall meeting? The "church in the wilderness" was those that were "called out" of Egypt, not Church as we understand today.

Why the accusations of being a preterist because I don't believe as you do? I do not believe the prophecies of Daniel were fulfilled in the 2nd century BC, nor do I believe the prophecies of Revelation happened during the 1st century AD.

You quack like a preterist. It is a simple thing as you have done to answer yea or nay. Were you, I desire to have no conversation with them save but to contend for Jude 1.3-4.

 

[abide]

Thanks for your replies. The way of Jesus is narrow and only a few will find it. Christ declared in Matthew 24 that deception would be the hallmark in the end time. Muslims are deceived....and A DECEIVED PERSON DOES NOT KNOW THAT THEY ARE DECEIVED. Even professing Christians are deceived. My prayer is that God will remove the spritual blindness from their minds.

 

[Eugene]

What is it that gives you the indication that Paul was the author of Hebrews?

Dear Brother dirtfarmer, I'd like the opportunity to answer this also with my reasoning.
2 Thessalonians 3:17-18 says, "The salutation of Paul with mine own hand, which is the token in every epistle: so I write. (18) The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen."

This is the way Paul signed off in his letters to these different churches, and Hebrews 13:25 closes with "Grace be with you all. Amen."

Hebrews 10:34 says "For ye had compassion of me in my bonds." To me and others, this indicates Paul authored Hebrews.