As Christians we are privileged to communicate
Christ’s gracious plan of salvation that others may also believe. Unfortunately,
few topics produce more fear among Christians than sharing the gospel. It seems
to be equal in desirability as going to the dentist. Accordingly, this fear may
influence how people define ‘sharing the gospel.’
Teleios recently surveyed the frequency and
methods used by evangelical Christians in sharing the gospel. The survey was
promoted on Christian Instagram accounts frequented by adolescents and
millennials. Of the 239 respondents the majority were: female (65%), <35
years old (70%), from the United States (56%), and evangelical (81%). In total,
82% thought the Bible was inerrant.
This survey showed both positive and negative
results.
On the positive side, most participants noted
they verbalize the gospel message to an unbeliever a from a few times a year to a few times a month
(69%) and an additional strong minority as frequently as a few times a week to
every day (16%).
On the negative side, many participants
indicated they feared verbalizing the gospel to unbelievers (36%). For those
who mentioned they were afraid, the most common reasons were: they did not know
what to say (66%); they might be offensive (36%); or rejected socially (30%).
Apart from fear, others indicated they rarely shared them because they could
not answer objections (46%) or explain the gospel (38%).
Further, about two-thirds felt guilty they did
not share the gospel enough (76%) and most thought they should share more
frequently (93%). Further, 20% confessed they might exaggerate how often they
shared the gospel to others.
Interestingly, participants noted their own best
method to share the gospel was by lifestyle example (29%). In contrast,
specifically communicating verbally the message of salvation was chosen by 10%
(6th ranked choice overall).
Why do Christians hesitate to share the gospel directly?
Prior Teleios research has found that, not surprisingly, Christians fear
sharing the gospel because of social isolation or offending someone. However,
the survey found that they also did not know what to say. Consistent with this,
my wife and I have never taught a disciple that, when asked about the specifics
of the plan of salvation, could give us a coherent answer.
Christian beliefs are correct, and we should
have glad confidence in the message we bring (Galatians 6:14; Romans 5:11).
Further, it takes just a little practice so learn how to explain the gospel. The
gospel message on the front page of Teleios’ website and it's easy to learn!
This survey suggests that young evangelicals
realize they need to share the gospel and they perceive they frequently
communicate it to others. However, the manner in which they tell others the
gospel rarely involves verbalizing the plan of salvation but includes more
messaging through lifestyle and encouragement.
This survey provides guidance to local churches
and youth leaders as they develop their teaching plans to train young
Christians specifically in the content of an efficient gospel message, how to
answer objections and questions, as well as build a vision in bringing people
to Christ.
Thanks for joining me with this blog. Visit
again soon as we continue to explore the truth of scripture and its benefit to
our lives.
For
questions or to view more of our research…
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