Why Courtesy?" It's because it's one of those practices that is so sadly lacking in our world today. More than ever, Christians need to be practicing courtesy. It's a great way to practice evangelism!
I told our congregation recently that the world reacts to the word, "evangelism." They get scared when they think you're going to try to "save them!" True, that is what we want to see happen, but we don't want to frighten them from even talking with us. Practicing courtesy often opens the door for sharing about Christ. Kindness before preaching is really a great way to get the attention of those you seek to win.
Friendship evangelism is what Jesus practiced! Watch Him in the Gospels. Sure, He preached, but He always found a way to meet a "felt need" of those who listened to Him. His gentleness and kindness made it possible for Him to touch thousands of lives. And the same can be true of us today. "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another..." is putting the act of kindness as a preparation for the act of forgiveness.
I suggested the following three steps to practice "Evangelism (Courtesy) 360":
1. Be Aware of Those AROUND you. "Look in the rearview mirror"
2. If possible, get to know their names. Pray for them.
3. Always show COURTESY to them. Ask God for opportunities to witness to them: booklets, visits, pray with them, etc.
Christians have always been known for their friendly ways and their desire to "be a blessing" to those around them. Many believers have found doors of opportunity to share the Gospel because people appreciated their thoughtfulness and kindness. It's not something new that I'm suggesting. But the idea of 360 means you're seeking to be aware of those all around you at any given moment. They are part of your mission field.
I told our congregation recently that the world reacts to the word, "evangelism." They get scared when they think you're going to try to "save them!" True, that is what we want to see happen, but we don't want to frighten them from even talking with us. Practicing courtesy often opens the door for sharing about Christ. Kindness before preaching is really a great way to get the attention of those you seek to win.
Friendship evangelism is what Jesus practiced! Watch Him in the Gospels. Sure, He preached, but He always found a way to meet a "felt need" of those who listened to Him. His gentleness and kindness made it possible for Him to touch thousands of lives. And the same can be true of us today. "Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another..." is putting the act of kindness as a preparation for the act of forgiveness.
I suggested the following three steps to practice "Evangelism (Courtesy) 360":
1. Be Aware of Those AROUND you. "Look in the rearview mirror"
2. If possible, get to know their names. Pray for them.
3. Always show COURTESY to them. Ask God for opportunities to witness to them: booklets, visits, pray with them, etc.
Christians have always been known for their friendly ways and their desire to "be a blessing" to those around them. Many believers have found doors of opportunity to share the Gospel because people appreciated their thoughtfulness and kindness. It's not something new that I'm suggesting. But the idea of 360 means you're seeking to be aware of those all around you at any given moment. They are part of your mission field.
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