Talking to Non-Believers

Sara Jansky · Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2002 2:00 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

Sometimes when talking to a non-believer I just get so fed up. Here I am just saying what I know to be true and they get so defensive and rude. It gets old. Not saying that all of them I have talked to are that way.

Is it like that for anyone else? I mean how do you respond to someone who has gotten hostile? I can keep my cool and all but I feel like giving up. They get what I am saying and all but just don't want to go any further than that. And I know that some people won't ever but those that I know care at least a little, they are hard to give up on.

I really need to hear from a fellow Christian right now.

Matdvd · Posted: Tue Aug 13, 2002 5:56 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

Sara,

believe me, my heart goes out to you.

I pray for strength for you to continue what you know is right. The biggest speaking you can do, more than your words, is your actions. I know because I have messed this one up so much, I don't think I could influence a flea at this point. Or at least that is what the devil would like me to think.

Just be certain that you are settled in your heart what you believe in, and when you speak to others, you won't have to convince them with truck-fulls of knowledge to get them to believe. Your anchor of peace and stillness, is something that will get peoples attention the fastest. Nowdays everyone reacts instantly to all stimuli available, and seeing you get frustrated is actually a goal. In today's society, the first glimpse of something being pushed their way, will result in the door slam...bam! You almost have to sly or coy with your knowledge, and act like you have a huge secret (and you do!), but don't want anyone else to know it. Like you won the lottery, but are hiding the fact.

At least this works best for me, and best for planting seed.

Now if you are trying to pick fruit that hasn't rippened yet, than you can tug away at the green stuff, but it won't come off. You are going to have to trust and pray that the Holy Spirit will direct that fruit that is ripe and wanting someone to talk to them so bad, and then be able to recognize it and help.

And by all means, don't take it personally. Sometimes we are only there to plant or water. Most times it won't be for picking. Juat be a friend to everyone, for the purpose of building bridges that some will cross when that day comes.

Hope this helps lady. The answer man I am not. Just experience, and heartache, with evangelism. You will rejoice when 1 does want to hear, more than 100 who don't. Remember, for those who aren't saved, how are they supposed to act? We shouldn't be surprised by their rude behaivor...that's how it is out there.

Take care and good luck!

larryjf · Posted: Wed Aug 14, 2002 10:30 am Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

i would just like to say that if you are getting the word out, you are doing your part. It is going to be difficult because the world rejects Christ. When we are persecuted for His names sake - rejoice and be glad.

I think that you are doing something right if people of this world don't respond kindly to you. It may not be comfortable for you, but hanging on the cross was not comfortable for Christ either. Be glad that you are counted worthy to suffer such things for His names sake.

Our job is to speak the word, it's Gods job to do the saving.

God bless you and keep you in Christ.

Sara Jansky · Posted: Wed Aug 14, 2002 3:05 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

Thank you for your response. I know that it is inevitalbe that I will be persecuted. I guess every now and then I just need a break, just a small one to calm down. I don't ever get frustrated in front of them but believe me I want to sometimes. Human nature kicking in.

Atrinae · Posted: Fri Aug 23, 2002 2:36 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

I just wanted to say that I have been alone in my spirituality for about two years now. I have been searching many different christian churches for the kind of inspirational words I have read in these messages. Not to show any favoritism but, especially the words Matdvd has posted. I want you to know that you have got it so right and I can't wait to read more of what you have to say! God is definatley moving in your life and I hope God can speak through me sometime just as he has spoken through you in these postings.

Matdvd · Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2002 5:02 am Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

Atrinae,

Thanks for the kind words. Believe me, I don't deserve them. Sometimes, well let's be honest, most of the time, it is easier to write and speak about the truth, than it is to put it into motion. By a long shot.

The thing that most people can identify with the most, is the transparency. I don't know how or why I was raised that way, but you won't see me trying to show something I am not. I am, in my own mind, a filthy sinner, and I struggle with this "skin suit" I am wearing, that drags me down, multiple times a day. Like Paul says in Romans 7:15-25 (which is my favorite part of the whole bible), I delight in God's law with my heart, but sin anyway.

I think that all people who profess Christ go thru this exact thing. Bad part is, they don't tell each other their struggles, so they think everyone else is really "spiritual", and feel isolated.

I, on the other hand, come around and tell others that it stinks, and is a constant struggle. And I think a lot of people can identify with that, and it releases a lot of guilt. And guilt is a huge tool in the devils hands, let me tell you...

Anyway, I think I'll shut up now. Thanks for the words. I told the fellas at Guitardiscussion.com that I wanted to pray for more people since these board were basically brand new, so you are answered prayer. Isn't that cool?

So in saying that, you indeed, are a blessing to me too!

Don't be a stranger. It can get lonely on these boards quick too! hehehe

See ya!

Atrinae · Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2002 5:41 am Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

Don't worry about being lonely anymore, I'm afraid your stuck with me! I've been to all the boards everyday since I started. I'm addicted!!

larryjf · Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2002 11:05 am Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

MatDvd,

You say that you are a sinner.
I have started to look at sin in a different light, and i would like you to tell me what you think.

We were sinners, when we became christian we became holy children of God. But, we still sin. As Paul writes in Romans "it is no longer I who sin but sin that dwells in me". So, even Paul admitted that he sinned, but said it wasn't his "true self" that did the sinning.

Our old self was crucified with Christ on the cross - he doesn't exist anymore. Either we are a sinner or we are a saint, we can't be both. I think it is more true to say we are saints who sin. But, our true identity works towards holiness in Christ - because, our true identity once we became a christian is found in Christ.

To me it is not giving God enough credit for what He did at our conversion to say that we are still sinners. Do you know what i'm saying?

Also, on romans 6-8, many people believe that the part where paul talks about not doing what he wants was his pre-conversion self trying to live out under the law. But, then it moves on to talking about his victory in Christ.

Sorry if it seems like a bit of rambling. Just interested in some thoughts on this.

God bless you in Christ.

Matdvd · Posted: Sun Aug 25, 2002 1:09 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

No, don't be sorry. You are absolutely correct. And great points.

I guess, as Bill Clinton would say, "What is your definition of 'I'?"

Just as Paul said, it is this flesh that dwells within me, that battles with who I really am, that is the problem. As a child who has accepted that Christ's death paid for all the stupid things I will do, I am not a sinner. You are indeed correct.

My frustration comes when who I am, doesn't win each and ever war. And until I die and can be released from this idiot, as someone looking from the outside would see, I am sinning. And that is why I said what I did.

Excellent commentary! Not rambling at all my friend! I have heard the theory about Paul's preconversion too. Don't know if I agree with the theory yet, but even if it is true, it's a great piece. I just have always loved knowing that someone else struggles within themselves like I do. It's so easy to think everyone else is so Holy and I am such a wretch at times.

Opps, did I ramble too?

Thx again!

larryjf · Posted: Mon Aug 26, 2002 5:40 am Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

i am glad to hear you say that.

and i think you are right - sometimes what someone needs is to know that they are not alone, and that we all do sin.

but, sometimes to be reminded of who they are in Christ - or, should one really go without the other?

Maybe whenever we remind ourselves of who we are in Christ, we should remember that we sin - stopping pride from entering in. And, when we remind ourselves that we sin, we should remember who we are in Christ - to give us a steadfast hope in our true nature.

God bless you.

Sara Jansky · Posted: Mon Aug 26, 2002 10:43 am Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

It is so good to not feel like I am the only one. And, Larry, I completely agree with you. Sin dwells in us. That really explains it doesn't it. I know most of the time when I sin, I look back on it and say; "Who was that? That couldn't have been me. I don't like doing things like that." We really are changed when we accept Christ. Like you said Larry, our old self was crucified on the cross with Jesus.

All of your posts were an answered prayer. Sometimes I begin to think there is no good left out there except for me and my family. With all the bad going on it is easy to forget. Thank you all.

Magnum PI · Posted: Mon Aug 26, 2002 12:55 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

Salutations Everyone!

Now that you are done patting one another on the back for your shared opinion(s) and hardships with the ignorant emotional knee-jerk reactions you've received when attempting to speak of that which you know to be true to you in your hearts...would any of you care to have a legitimate debate with someone who enjoys debating the facts (i.e., philosophical, anthropological, sociological, psychological, etc.), statistics and other empirical/tangible forms of evidence that will test your belief/faith in God and Christianity (or whatever religion you profess to believe in)?
Anyone up for the (open-minded) challenge?

MPI

clearwater · Guest

Finally, thank you Magnum! Hopefully when I have more time I can come back and post a discussion with someone who wants to use logic instead of bunch of emotions that have been handed down for generations.

Sara Jansky · Posted: Wed Aug 28, 2002 1:48 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

The Bible is much more logical than the worlds knowledge. We don't base our beliefs on emotions soley. However the first step to wisdom is an emotion. The FEAR of the Lord.

Magnum and clearwater, what emotions drive you to not believe? I definately haven't heard a reason from Magnum yet in all my discussing with him. I really would like to Magnum. And the only way I want an answer is to get one that is not sarcastic or rude. It really makes you look bad. I know the way you can be and it doesn't do much for what you are trying to prove.

Yes, clearwater a logical discussion would be great but I really don't expect one from Magnum not ever. He seems to run off more emotions than I do. Mostly anger is what it sounds like. And hatred of God and the Bible. I get this from other posts on other sites I have seen from him.

[This message has been edited by Sara Jansky (edited 08-28-2002).]

Magnum PI · Posted: Wed Aug 28, 2002 2:40 pm Post subject: Talking to Non-Believers

quote:
Originally posted by Sara Jansky:
The Bible is much more logical than the worlds knowledge. We don't base our beliefs on emotions soley. However the first step to wisdom is an emotion. The FEAR of the Lord.

Magnum and clearwater, what emotions drive you to not believe? I definately haven't heard a reason from Magnum yet in all my discussing with him. I really would like to Magnum. And the only way I want an answer is to get one that is not sarcastic or rude. It really makes you look bad. I know the way you can be and it doesn't do much for what you are trying to prove.

Yes, clearwater a logical discussion would be great but I really don't expect one from Magnum not ever. He seems to run off more emotions than I do. Mostly anger is what it sounds like. And hatred of God and the Bible. I get this from other posts on other sites I have seen from him.

[This message has been edited by Sara Jansky (edited 08-28-2002).]

How very Christian and noble of you to set me up for failure by painting (judging) me with such a negative broad brush.

Isn't there some little lesson about casting judgment on others in The Bible?

People act differently amongst different company. There is method to my madness in how I respond to others in various forums. Maybe some day I'll tell you why

Until then...You should allow others to decide for themselves.

MPI

[This message has been edited by Magnum PI (edited 08-28-2002).]