I have been witnessing to the lost since I was saved in 1972. The stories I could write I will save for another post. A few of the tools I find helpful in presenting the truth to the unsaved include:
- A solid familiarity with the Scriptures, especially concerning the heart of man and what proceeds out of it, the penalty of sin, the propitiation for our sins through Christ's shed blood, and grace
- The ability to listen, which is a learned skill, not something we suddely awaken to. The best training I've found was through Skip Hunt's classes on active listening. His book, called How Can I Help? is well able to equip when studied and practiced.
- A safe harbor for the destitute. In years past, I would take home the lost from the streets. I risked my safety as well as the loss of my possessions doing that, so I've set aside that approach. Churches ought to be willing to work together to provide a place such as what is offered at the Salvation Army. Unfortunately, organized evangelism isn't on the minds of most congregations these days.
- A foundation in the histories and errors of religious cults such as Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, Scientology and Christian Science. Knowing, for instance, that the Trinity can be seen even within the JW's New World Translation Bible, despite their refusal to belief it, may help to make a point.
- An understanding and acceptance of the challenges ahead for such an effort, and a willingness to be creative. Attempts to evangelize should not be centered in one's church, by thinking the only way to reach unbelievers is to ask them to attend a service. You must be willing to go out to them, wherever that might be.
- At an advanced stage, churches may choose to invest in a flat bed trailer on which musicians can provide tunes that lift up the name of Jesus. Don't make it a concert. Keep it simple. This avenue is great for the giving of testimonies by Christians on how they met the Lord.