Christians: Do you believe it is your right or it is a privilege to share your faith?

Question

I believe that we need to walk our talk and be imitators of Christ and that it is a priviedge - not a right to share the gospel and/or good news.

Jesus delivered sermons but he preached to people that willingly came and wanted to hear his message. He waited for people to ask Him questions before he blurted out His opinion. He didn't heal unless he was asked to. Christ respected people's "space".

What say you?

Answer 1

I believe in leadership by example. Walking the walk and talking the talk. Holding to the commandments of not to judge and to have faith, hope and love. I don't believe in cramming it down people's throats. The seekers will seek and if we happen to be there we care share stories of miracles, truths and faith.

Answer 2

I partially agree. However, Jesus did not always wait for questions to be asked before he taught multitudes of people. Look up the beatitudes, and the times he preached on mountain tops. The task is finding effective ways to share Christ with the world. It's good if we live a good life that exemplifies Christ, but Christians are not the only good moral citizens in the world, it's going to take more than good works alone. I like holding tent meetings and BBQ picnics that actually bring people to my circle to hear the gospel.

Answer 3

I think that we should preach the gospel and when neccesary use words. and yes that is a quote by st francis!!

we have to walk the walk if we are going to talk the talk!!

we cant sit in church on sunday morning all prim and proper if we are out smoking crack with 13 year olds on saturday afternoon (and yes this is a bit much, but you get the point!)

sometimes, we forget the difference between sharing and preaching.

Answer 4

As a non-Christian, I have no problems if a Christian wants to share their beliefs. They should however also respect that once they do, I have a right to disagree or challenge their doctrines.

I think certain Christians expect instant compliance and acceptance from everyone with everything they say and when that does not happen, they start to get personal and use underhanded emotional tactics.

In addition, they should also respect that if THEY can preach and push their beliefs within a public forum, so too should I.

Answer 5

It's definitely a privilege.

But Jesus didn't just wait for people to just ask him questions. There are several accounts where Jesus sent his disciples out in pairs to preach from house to house. He said if they don't accept you, dust your sandals off. But if they do, go into the house and stay.

So, he respected space, but it is a duty - even though it's a privilege - to go out and preach the word of God.

Matthew 24:14; 28:18-20; Acts 5:41,42

Answer 6

This is something I've considered as well. He did go into the synagogue and teach. He also cleansed the temple. But He certainly had a more captivated audience with those having an ear to listen as opposed to the Pharasees and Saducees. I certainly think that our example says far more than our words. If someone can see that you are uncompromising in your love and kindness, then they would certainly be more willing to listen.

Answer 7

I believe it is a privilege to share my faith with those who ask. My church is actually my favorite topic and I have studied it's doctrines and history very intently. There are people who don't believe what I believe but I enjoy talking to them as much as I like talking to someone of my faith. It encourages me to study my scriptures even more. "I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I know who I am, I know God's plan and I fallow Him in faith." (It's a children's song)

Answer 8

I also respect peoples space...it is a privilege to share my faith if someone asks. But I DO NOT push my Religion on anyone...I am respectful of others beliefs and Religions...I just wish more were...

Answer 9

Actually it is a commandment to go and make disciples.

That doesn't mean we force it on people but we are to tell others and to live a Christian life. But that is not important, I don't think you can be a Christian and not wish to tell people about what God has done for you. I am sure you can not be a Christian and wish everyone to know Christ and be saved.

Answer 10

Read the Bible again. Christ taught plenty of people that didn't want to hear what He had to say.

But I see what you're getting at. Preaching hellfire and damnation at the top of one's lungs probably isn't a real effective approach. :-)