How to be an answer

I have often said that the hardest part of personal evangelism is not learning what to say but having the willingness and courage to say something to make Christ known. We are already equipped through his Word and sacraments. We know John 3:16. And yet, for many of us, it can be really challenging to speak the gospel message. I’m wondering if we are putting too much pressure on ourselves. Instead of preparing how to give an answer, it might be more important to be an answer. It’s a re-direction of emphasis on Christ, rather than ourselves. Maybe we can examine this further.

I wonder what Apostle Paul was feeling after he was baptized?

After the scales fell from his eyes (Acts 9:18), he immediately began to preach in Damascus that Jesus is the Son of God. We forget that soon after, the Lord sent him to Arabia and did not return for three years (Gal. 1:17-18).

I wonder that after the euphoria of conversion and baptism, Paul felt the pangs of being a colossal failure. Though filled with love, grace, and forgiveness, human nature can easily kick in. Did Paul’s soil need some serious weeding?

The former Saul passionately believed he was God’s all-star. He was on his way to Damascus to root out heresy. He was the appointed captain in service of the Sanhedrin. I’m sure he felt the nods of approval from people who mattered. His world was smashed to smithereens when Jesus appeared and said, “Why do you persecute me?”

And now, as a baptized child of God, he was entering rooms, courts, and synagogues with people who either feared or loathed him. A former persecutor to one audience, and a traitor to the other. I can’t imagine the thoughts that were swirling in his head.

So, how can you be an answer?

The Apostle Paul was inspired by the Holy Spirit to be real with us. It was okay to acknowledge that God seems to do his best work through colossal failures rather than conquering heroes. In Paul’s epistles, we learn;

1. In weakness, there is strength.
2. In trials, character is built and trust in God’s promises are deepened,
3. In place of fear, we receive perfect love that drives it out.
4. In place of timidity, we receive power, love, and self-discipline.

To BE an answer is to BE-lieve that Jesus is the answer. He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. He is not only the source of our salvation, but also the only source to receive a life in Christ. Evangelism, then, becomes more of a reflex that is produced by faith, inspired by hope, and prompted by love. We believe, therefore we speak. And the words pour out from our hearts.