Biblical Witnessing: Listen First, Share Second
Have you ever shared your faith only to feel like you were talking to a brick wall? The Bible reveals a powerful truth: effective evangelism begins with listening, not speaking.
Why Listening Comes First in Biblical Witnessing
Proverbs 14:5 warns, "A faithful witness will not lie, but a false witness will utter lies." This verse exposes a common evangelism mistake - assuming we know what others believe without truly listening to them first.
Many Christians immediately launch into Scripture without understanding the person's actual beliefs or objections. This approach often creates barriers rather than bridges.
Four Biblical Principles for Effective Witnessing
1. Clothe Yourself in Humility
1 Peter 5:5 reminds us to "be clothed with humility: For God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble." When witnessing, lost people must see this humility. You can't effectively speak of salvation by grace while displaying pride in your approach.
2. Be Genuinely Friendly and Patient
Proverbs 18:24 teaches that "A man that hath friends must show himself friendly." Be willing to stick with people, listen to them, and build genuine relationships. Jesus was called "a friend of publicans and sinners" for a reason - He engaged with people rather than just preaching at them.
3. Speak with Grace Seasoned with Salt
Colossians 4:6 instructs, "Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt." Like properly salted food, our words should be palatable while preserving truth. Take time to listen and ask the Lord to "pass the salt" before you speak.
4. Remember: Law to the Proud, Grace to the Humble
James 4:6 reminds us that "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble." Recognize where someone is spiritually. When hearts are touched with humility, they're ready to receive grace.
The Missing Ingredient: Time to Listen
We don't have any lack of Bible truth in the United States, what we have a lack of is people willing to just listen to this lost and dying world.
Think of it as a doctor diagnosing a patient. They don't prescribe medication without first examining the patient and understanding their condition. Similarly, effective witnessing requires understanding where people are coming from before sharing the gospel solution.
🎯 Want to become a more effective witness for Christ?
This post covers just a fraction of the powerful biblical teaching on effective witnessing found in the complete sermon. For full, verse-by-verse Bible teaching that will transform your evangelism approach, click here to listen to the entire message!
Our expository preaching and verse-by-verse Bible teaching will equip you with practical tools for sharing your faith effectively. Don't miss this opportunity to grow in your witness! 🙏