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 The Importance of Conversation
Conversational Evangelism Series: Part 1
Todd Hunter, Board Member and Consultant, Alpha USA, and noted speaker on evangelism and culture writes:
Conversation and conversion are related terms. They have the same root—converse. More importantly, they are related in the practice of evangelism. Conversation is to contemporary evangelism what the heart, liver and lungs are to a body—a vital organ, indispensable.
The old meanings of conversation imply more than just words. Older usages refer to a manner of, or certain quality of, living. One’s conversation referred to how they conducted themselves with others, how they handled the normal routines of their life.
“Okay,” you might be saying. “Connect the dots for me.” Conversation is evangelistically vital today because seekers learn as much by telling their story and asking questions that are relevant to them, as they do by hearing. We, on the other hand, tend to think of evangelism as talking, telling or asserting truths, facts and propositions. It has not dawned of many of us that listening can be powerful—and persuasive.
Conversational evangelism does not imply compromise. For instance, maybe you are concerned that by sincerely listening to someone’s errant views of God, Jesus or the Bible, you are inviting and condoning false doctrine. Think of it this way: God is not surprised by what they are thinking or by what you are hearing. God has known it all along. And he did not reject them for their mixed conceptions of him. Nor should we snub a seeker who finally finds the clarity of mind and courage to say out loud what they are thinking. At that moment, they do not need a judge or a critic. They need an empathetic friend—and genuine conversation partner. A courtroom judge is not usually interested in a “conversation.” A present-day wise evangelist is.
The good news of conversation is that it facilitates discussion. It allows for both listening and talking. Having heard another’s story and view points, there will be time for you to talk as well—to tell your story and to relate your ideas about God.
Next time I’ll explain why, from the point of view of seekers, conversation works in evangelism.
Todd |
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