Evangelizing Professing Believers: A Guide to Sharing the Gospel

How to Evangelize Professing Believers

Evangelism is rarely easy. We need to strike a balance between sharing our faith without undue offense and being one who stands up to be counted (2 Timothy 4:1–4). Yet as uncomfortable as encounters with unbelievers may be, they don’t hold a candle to having to evangelize someone who already claims to be a Christian.

For some, this will, no doubt, come across as the worst of Christian offenses. “How can you judge someone else’s faith?” they may ask. And our answer is simple: Because the Bible says we should (Matthew 7:15–20).

What, then, are we to do when our lives regularly intersect with those who claim to be for Christ and yet whose lives plainly don’t bear the fruit?

1. Examine yourself first.

We cannot divorce verses 15–20 of Matthew 7 from verses 1–5, which teach that we should be quick to get the log out of our own eye before turning to note the speck in our neighbor’s (Matthew 7:1-5). It is essential to regularly examine our own lives and ensure that we are walking in alignment with God’s Word.

When evangelizing professing believers, it is crucial to approach them with humility and a heart that seeks to understand. By examining ourselves first, we avoid the danger of hypocrisy and gain credibility in our interactions.

2. Understand their beliefs.

Before engaging in evangelism with professing believers, take the time to understand their beliefs and perspectives. This knowledge will help you tailor your approach and address any misconceptions or doubts they may have.

Ask questions, listen actively, and seek to grasp their understanding of Christianity. This empathetic approach will foster open and meaningful conversations, allowing you to better communicate the truth of the gospel.

3. Use the Scripture.

The Bible is the ultimate authority for Christians. When evangelizing professing believers, it is crucial to rely on Scripture to explain and support your arguments.

Highlight relevant verses and passages that address their specific concerns or areas of confusion. By grounding your conversations in God's Word, you provide a solid foundation for their faith and challenge any false beliefs.

For example, when discussing the importance of bearing fruit as a believer, you can reference passages like John 15:1–8 and Galatians 5:22–23. These verses emphasize the transformative work of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life and the evidence it produces.

4. Lead by example.

Actions often speak louder than words. As you engage in evangelism with professing believers, strive to exemplify the teachings of Christ through your own life.

Show them the love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control that should mark a believer's life (Galatians 5:22–23). Your consistent and Christlike behavior will not only validate your message but also challenge them to examine their own lives.

5. Pray continuously.

Prayer is a powerful tool in any evangelistic effort, especially when dealing with professing believers. Continually lift them up in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts and reveal any areas of spiritual blindness or resistance.

Pray for wisdom and discernment as you engage in conversations with them. Ask God to grant you the right words and a spirit of love as you share the truth. Trust in the power of prayer to soften hearts and bring about genuine transformation.

6. Practice patience.

Evangelizing professing believers can be a long and challenging process. It requires patience and perseverance. Remember, genuine transformation takes time.

Be patient with their doubts, questions, and resistance. Avoid becoming discouraged or frustrated. Instead, rely on the Holy Spirit to work in their lives and trust in God's timing. Your role is to faithfully sow the seeds of truth and allow God to bring about the harvest.

7. Maintain a loving attitude.

Love should underpin every aspect of our evangelistic efforts. When dealing with professing believers, it is crucial to approach them with a genuine love and concern for their spiritual well-being.

Avoid a judgmental or confrontational attitude. Instead, demonstrate compassion, empathy, and understanding. Let your love for Christ and for them shine through your words and actions. Show them that your desire is for their eternal salvation and growth in Christ.

8. Trust God for the results.

Ultimately, the results of evangelizing professing believers are in God's hands. We can faithfully sow the seeds of truth, but it is God who brings about the growth (1 Corinthians 3:6–7).

Trust in God's sovereignty and His ability to work in the hearts and lives of those you engage with. Rest in the knowledge that your role is to be faithful in sharing the gospel and leave the outcomes to God.

Conclusion

Evangelizing professing believers requires wisdom, discernment, and a heart filled with love. It is a delicate task that calls for self-reflection, understanding, and reliance on God's Word and Spirit.

By examining ourselves first, seeking to understand their beliefs, using Scripture, leading by example, praying continuously, practicing patience, maintaining a loving attitude, and trusting God for the results, we can effectively engage with professing believers and help them grow in their faith.