Let’s Listen
We’re beginning the last few months of our 2022 evangelism campaign. Last month, we discussed how to use the Bible with unbelievers. This month, let’s consider the role of listening in evangelism.
Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote the following insightful observation, “The first service that one owes to others consists in listening to them. Just as love to God begins with listening to His Word, so the beginning of love for [others] is learning to listen to them. It is God’s love for us that He not only gives us His Word but also lends us His ear.”
When we think about evangelism we often worry about what we should say. And, of course, what we say is of supreme importance. The gospel is a message which must be heard and believed, which means we must speak. But if we aren’t good listeners, we shouldn’t be surprised when our words fall on deaf ears.
Time spent listening to an unbeliever share about their struggles, their doubts, their beliefs, and their worldview is time well-spent. We need to understand them if we’re to share the gospel with them wisely and effectively.
Listen before you speak. Ask questions to get your neighbor talking:
What do you believe about God?
Why do you think we’re here?
What happens after we die?
What’s wrong with mankind?
If you let them talk long enough, they may even just ask you to share your thoughts. That’s your opportunity to speak the truth in love.
Next Steps
Decide who your “one” is for August and prepare to share about them with your small group. If you didn’t share the gospel with your “one” from last month, feel free to pick them and try again!
Honestly assess your listening skills. Are you a good listener? What kinds of questions could you ask your “one” to help draw them out and move them towards a conversation about the gospel?
Review the “Who’s Your One?” webpage and make use of the recommended resources at the bottom.
May we love our neighbors by listening well.
