In addition to the example of Dorcas, we may think of the dialogue that Philip enjoyed with the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-31). We see a range of examples today, from private conversations between family members and neighbors to street evangelists that use displays to illustrate their preaching. Many such evangelists, having a ready answer and wit, are very good at answering questions and developing a conversation with the inquiring individual.
In our society the electronic witness through social media, although having the disadvantage of not being face to face, has its own value and advantages. I remember a conversation I had with a man at a bookstall who was preaching about his religion. We had a pleasant visit, but I felt later that I had not done justice to the message of the gospel. It made me realize that I am not good in giving spontaneous responses to questions and arguments; I need to think an answer out. It is comforting to know that others have similar shortcomings.
A Facebook page that presented claims of a religion gave an opportunity. I challenged the assertions and had two responses to which I was able to respond in my own turn. In this media I was able to think out the nature and the wording of their responses as well as my own. This is an advantage one does not have in face-to-face conversation.
Many social media networks allow one to make a challenge or ask a question. Regardless of receiving a response, these entries will be read. Through these means I have been able to point out the teaching that most sins are conceived in the mind, and that thoughts are as bad as the deeds (Mt. 5:27-28, 15:18-19; Jas.1:14-15). Only the Lord knows the results of this work for Him.
Many people form groups for communication with one another. Recently I found a group that included a man who was arguing strongly for his own version of religion instead of for freedom in the Lord Jesus. Being older and more experienced, God by His grace enabled me to counter his arguments. Whether it helped him or not, I was assured that my remarks were helpful to others in the group who were struggling with his views.
Twitter is also an interesting way of witnessing. Paul wrote that “we are ambassadors for Christ” (2 Cor. 5:20 KJV. See also Eph. 6:20). An ambassador, we remind ourselves, is someone who represents his country to the people of another country. As ambassadors, we believers are of the heavenly country where the Lord Jesus is King and we are His representatives to tell His truth in word and in deed to the nations around us. It hardly needs pointing out that very soon the heavenly ambassadors are to be called home.
A favorite activity of mine is to exhort Christians to be Bereans, who, “were more noble ... in that they received the Word with all readiness of mind, and searched the Scriptures daily whether these things were so” (Acts 17:11). What a wonderful example!
Blogging is another electronic media worth mentioning. It is an exercise in which Christians can be profitably involved.
A Word Of Caution
However, I have to add that these things are not for everyone. Not everyone is a teacher or an evangelist, nor are there many who have Paul’s knowledge of things philosophical and religious. To enter the public arena, as perhaps gladiators for Christ, one needs to be a practiced swordsman or woman and keep a close watch on himself and his teaching.
By Roger Penney