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Not long after I accepted a position at the seminary where I received my theology training, I attended a conference of professors from around the country. One of the speakers had a Ph.D. in religion and theology. It wasn’t long before it became apparent that this person knew a lot about God, but he did not have a personal relationship with God through Christ. So, during one of the lunch breaks, I sat with him and initiated a conversation about salvation and the gospel message. I will never forget this religion professor’s response: “Well, how can a good God let bad things happen?”
His question brings up one of the most common questions people ask, especially during times like these. They worry, “What if an unbeliever asks me a theological question that I can’t answer?” Well, rest easy — the fact that they are asking any questions at all is a good thing. Evangelism is not a monologue, but a dialogue. It is listening to other people; understanding their objections, fears, and questions; and then seeking to give solid biblical answers.
The Christian faith demands that we have enough compassion to learn the questions of our generation and go to the Bible for its answers. And to help you be prepared, I’m going to list the seven basic questions (objections) that unbelievers most often ask. Alongside each objection, I’ll also provide the most basic scriptures that will help you with the answers. My prayer is that you have developed the kinds of friendships with others that will make them feel comfortable asking you questions through these tough times.
Seven Basic Objections to the Gospel
My friend, I pray that you will take on the task of building those bridges, making those friendships, and becoming a good neighbor so that you will have an opportunity to “give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have” (1 Peter 3:15). The rewards are eternal, for those who come to Christ through your witness—both verbal and nonverbal—will become fellow citizens of heaven.
PONDER
What type of objections have you experienced when sharing the Gospel with other people? What answers do you find most useful to help overcome someone’s skepticism?
RESPOND
Lord, give me the hope and faith I need to be a Godly witness during this time. With Your leading and Your power and grace, I can accomplish anything—and all things! Amen.
RENEWING RESOURCES
Know Your Bible from A to Z makes personal exploration of the Bible more rewarding and life-transforming. Both new and longtime Christians will find this a must-have resource to keep alongside their Bibles.
REFLECT
Show people that you really care. Show them Christ’s love through your love. Show them your heart!
REMEMBER
Witnessing is not a one-way street. It’s okay for others to ask questions.
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Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:
I know from personal experience that living a life of prayer is not easy. Our lives are filled with a multitude of activities that tend to crowd out time for prayer. How many times have you been guilty of telling someone that you would pray for them? Your heart genuinely yearned to be a part of bringing their need before the throne of God. And then what happened? I’m sure that, if you’re like me, more times than you would like to admit, you forgot about the promise to pray before you rounded the corner of the church building! Why? Because you didn’t write the request down.
Paul knew the importance of strategic prayer in his own life and the lives of others. And he knew what to pray for. His prayers focused on spiritual issues. He knew that if those he was praying for were spiritually mature, they could handle anything.