Your church is organizing an outreach event and is asking for members to be faithful in inviting at least three people along. You agree that the event is worthwhile and are determined to do your bit. You decide to invite three people who you know reasonably well but you’ve never spoken to them about Jesus. How will it go?
Stop and consider: Are you more of an optimist or pessimist when you contemplate initiating gospel conversations or inviting someone to an event?
What should we expect when we talk to people about Jesus? Are there any grounds for optimism?
Realistic
We have good reasons to expect that many people won’t be interested in the Christian message. Jesus teaches that many are on the broad road to destruction and few are on the narrow road to life (Matt 7:13-14). We shouldn’t be surprised or shocked when people respond to the gospel message negatively or with apathy. The Bible expects it, and so should we.
Optimistic
But at the same time we also need to keep in mind that there are actually some people on the narrow road to life. The road is not empty.
The Bible teaches that God has chosen some people to respond to his word. God is powerful to change even the most stubborn heart. Therefore, we have grounds for optimism that some people will respond positively to the message about Jesus.
Paul’s optimism
The apostle Paul knew that gospel ministry would be hard work and that many people would reject him. But he is optimistic that some people will respond positively—because God has elected them to:
Remember Jesus Christ, risen from the dead, the offspring of David, as preached in my gospel, for which I am suffering, bound with chains as a criminal. But the word of God is not bound! Therefore I endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory. (2 Tim 2:8-10)
We don’t know who God has chosen for salvation. The only way to find out is to tell the gospel to everyone we come in contact with. Realistically, many won’t be interested, but we can be optimistic that some will accept.
There might even be someone sitting in your office right now ready to accept the message of life.
Stop and consider: Do you think you need a dose of realism or optimism when thinking about talking to people about Jesus or inviting someone to an event?
Pray: Thank God that he has chosen some people for salvation. Pray for perseverance to keep proclaiming the gospel.
