Opposition
Our Fears
How do we handle opposition? Do we need to have an answer for every objection that we encounter? No we don’t. All we need to know is that we are saved and our story of how it happened.
The Devil has provided people with many reasons for not becoming a Christian. That is his business and he is very good at it.
He has also provided Christians with many fears about sharing their faith. Remember that the Savior has asked us to do it and that He will provide divine help.
Hypocrites
Many people do have legitimate gripes about Christianity — they have had a bad experience with Christians or a Christian church.
We can’t erase that past hurt or disappointment. Sometimes it is helpful if you can get them to talk about it, and sympathize with their hurt. Time permitting let them go into great detail — be a good listener. It will help them to vent their feelings.
Don’t make excuses for Christian bad behavior or even for their perceived bad behavior.
It’s best to concede that sometimes Christians do really bad things.
All Your Objections
I think that it is a good idea to encourage a skeptic to tell all his objections. Although he may hold some things back, even his major problem with Christianity, the more he talks the better opportunity you will have, later in the discussion, to offer help and possibly prayer.
Try not to get into an argument even if the objections raised are not true or are greatly exaggerated. Be courteous, respectful and friendly.
When you have discovered the major things which appear to be the obstacles to faith, hopefully you will have an opportunity to respond.
Trust the Holy Spirit to give you leading on how to respond. Many times the Holy Spirit will bring into your mind scriptures which give guidance to you or provide an appropriate verbal response.
Scriptures are powerful and the Word of God will not return void. Sometimes it is good if you can get the objector to read the verse, and then ask him or her what they think that it means.
Try not to embarrass the objector. It is best if you can witness to a person singularly so that he is not embarrassed in front of others by your questions.
Other Religious Systems or Philosophies
Everyone naturally thinks that their religion or philosophy is the best. My suggestion is to ask questions about what they personally believe. Questions that you might ask are:
What do you think will happen to you when you die?
Do you know for sure?
Do you think that it is possible for a person to know for sure?
What is the authority or proof for what you believe?
What are your thoughts about the Bible?
What are your thoughts about God?
What are your thoughts about the Cross?
Do you believe that Jesus was and is God?
Do you believe that you are a sinner?
I Don’t Know
When asked a question about your own faith, if you don’t know the answer, admit that you don’t know. You don’t have to know all the answers. You can respond with an offer to try to find a good answer and get back with them.
Your Testimony
The only thing that you need to know is that you are saved. How you came to that knowledge, and how it has changed your life is your testimony and it is appropriate to tell it in almost every situation.
Opposition is Good (for You)
A great thing happens when we meet strong objections — They drive us to the Word and Prayer for answers and power. These are very special spiritual times. They are glorious and deeply rewarding.
Love The Sinner
Ask God for a special love for the objector no matter how hateful he may become. Remember, but for the grace of God, you could be the objector.
–Ed–
But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: (1 Pe 3:15)
For consider him that endured such contradiction of sinners against himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds. (Heb 12:3)
A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger. (Pro 15:1)
Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. (Isa 41:10)
Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. (Mat 10:16)