Effective Evangelism

“We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our
ministry will not be discredited” (2 Cor. 6:3).

“Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the
church of God” (2 Cor. 10:32).

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be
prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the
hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear
conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in
Christ may be ashamed of their slander” (1 Peter 3:15-16).

One of the most effective means of evangelism is to keep
from stumbling unbelievers. Read how Paul does it in 2 Corinthians 6:4-10:

“Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every
way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; in beatings,
imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; in purity,
understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love;
in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in
the right hand and in the left; through glory and dishonor, bad report and good
report; genuine, yet regarded as impostors; known, yet regarded as unknown;
dying, and yet we live on; beaten, and yet not killed; sorrowful, yet always
rejoicing; poor, yet making many rich; having nothing, and yet possessing
everything.”

Amazing, isn’t it! Are we willing to apply this list in our
lives so that people will be saved? It is easy to stumble unbelievers—we can do
that without trying. If we live godly lives in Christ Jesus, we will suffer
persecution (2 Timothy 3:12), but the persecutor will feel ashamed because of
his slander.

This post coordinates with today’s reading in the To
the Word! Bible Reading Challenge. If you are not in a daily reading plan,
please join us at totheword.com. We would love to have you reading with us.