Read Acts 17
We see something of the mission methodology of Paul and his team in this chapter. In Thessalonica and Berea, Paul went to the Synagogue where he already had a common starting ground for understanding among the people. In the Synagogue he started with Old Testament Scripture which they already believed and reasoned for placing faith in Jesus as the Christ. In Athens, he spoke with the philosophers and thinkers by quoting one of their own philosophers and referring to an altar to an UNKNOWN GOD as he reasoned for them to place their faith in Jesus as the Christ.
The results? A few became Christ followers, some were merely interested, some took the matter seriously, some dismissed the message, and others were angered. We can expect the same spectrum of results when we seek to persuade others about the truth and importance of the Gospel of Christ. If we follow Paul's methodology, we look first for people who may be interested. All need to hear. Some are more ready to hear and respond than others. Use references, languages, examples, and symbols that are common to those we are trying to communicate. Start where they are. Build bridges that connect to Jesus. Keep checking to verify that they are following along and understand. Some will be dismissive or angry, but some will be ready to respond.
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