How to Utilize a Christian’s Unfair Advantage in Evangelism

Christians have an unfair advantage when proclaiming the gospel and it makes a huge difference in our witnessing.

In his book, “Speaking of Jesus: The Art of Not-Evangelism,” author Carl Madearis provides direction and encouragement by placing emphasis squarely on Jesus.

Christians know where the truth is found. They know the Creator — the Almighty King of the universe – as the only source of life, hope, and peace. They know where to receive the assurance of eternal life in heaven. While other religions talk about what they must do to earn salvation, believers in Christ simply point to the Risen Savior.

People today are looking for answers, even though they may be cautious or appear disinterested. Some may be impolite or express anger when the subject of God is brought up, most are pleading for answers in their own way. Witnessing opportunities can occur suddenly and unexpectedly. Our natural tendency is to panic, falter, or say something weak or anecdotal. And sometimes, faithful, mature Christians will disqualify themselves by choosing not to say anything at all.

We tend to forget that those who trust in God’s promises have an unfair advantage. His name is Jesus.

It is helpful to know that the gospel and the religion of Christianity can be two different messages.

The term “Christian” can have different connotations. There are people who have had unfortunate experiences with churches or with people who profess faith in God. There are also people who will call themselves a Christian but will define their beliefs in multiple ways. They don’t have a clear understanding of the Bible, nor desire to go to church to hear it. These are some reasons why people will initially balk at invitations to come to church on Sunday mornings if an adequate reason is not provided.

When Christians talk about Jesus instead of Christianity, they don’t have to defend or explain him. All they need to do is point their finger at his Word and say, “There is Jesus!” The message of the gospel is the only Good News that can fill empty hearts, because Jesus is the gospel.

“Jesus didn’t come to build a kingdom. He brought one with Him. Wherever Jesus went, the pained and lost people He met followed Him. Jesus’ gospel was that He was the kingdom of heaven, with an easy and light yoke. He was available, and He was compassionate. And it appears that He was making house calls.”

Carl Madearis

Evangelism is both easy and exceptionally difficult. The words are easy and simple, yet so difficult to proclaim. This is why we need to focus on the ability of the Word to be powerful and effective rather than our ability to proclaim it. It is the presence of Christ in his Word that provides an unfair advantage over the world.

Christians are not responsible to sell or market Jesus Christ. They are called to simply provide a message of what Christ means to them and why. And people today are willing to listen! Friends and neighbors would be willing to hear a reason for the hope believers have in Christ. It is not because they are so amazing, but Jesus is so compelling. His grace and his life that lives in and through a redeemed life in Christ provides a platform to proclaim his truth.

Evangelism is not so much learning what to say, but a willingness to show up and be used by God in a powerful way. By telling others what he has done for us, we introduce Christ.  And he takes it from there.

Now that is an unfair advantage that grants us confidence and courage to be his witnesses.