I am an unashamed and unapologetic critic of "Friendship Evangelism," as it is most commonly advocated, taught, and practiced. I believe Christians should befriend unbelievers. I am not against that in the least. But if the goal of developing relationships with lost people bound for hell is anything less than seeking every opportunity to proclaim the gospel to them, then the … [Read more...]
When the Encouragement Doesn’t Come
A brother in Christ sent me the following email: "There are a lot of brothers and sisters out on the streets daily and weekly reaching the lost, saving babies at the murder mills, etc., all over this country. Some of these brothers and sisters are very high profile and receive praises and encouragement with every post on Facebook or Twitter. "But there are also brothers and … [Read more...]
Larry: An Example of “Friendship Evangelism”
Larry is 61-years-old, married with four adult children, and he has four grandchildren--ages 8 to 22. Larry is retired after a 35-year career as the CEO of a non-profit organization that specialized in providing care and support for seniors and people with disabilities. Originally from New Orleans, Larry was raised in the religious framework of Roman Catholicism, but he left … [Read more...]
The Bait & Switch of Friendship Evangelism
Introduction I have written extensively over the years about the evangelistic darling of American Evangelicalism: "friendship evangelism." I have very little positive to say about friendship evangelism, as it is most commonly practiced. I am not opposed to establishing friendships with unbelievers. If I repeated the last sentence a dozen times in this article, there would … [Read more...]
Conversation with Steve: An Example of Biblical Friendship Evangelism
The Christian should never allow evangelism to become more important than the person standing in front of him. Some may find that statement a bit odd, especially if they are regularly engaged in biblical evangelism. But there is truth in the title--truth that, if ignored, could result in evangelism becoming little more than a sport or a hobby, with those receiving or hearing … [Read more...]
Slaying Friendship Evangelism
Friendship Evangelism as it is most often practiced, is neither friendship nor evangelism. Far too often it's more about the believer than it's about Jesus Christ. What happens to the "friend" if they die in their sins before you decide the time is right to share the gospel with them? Waiting for an unbeliever to give you permission to share the gospel, which Jesus Christ has … [Read more...]
Week in Review – Arrest, Wimbledon and Tony Miano
Cross Encounters Radio "You're Doing it Wrong!" Chris and Rich covered an update from Tony's evangelism efforts in the UK. Friendship Evangelism is alive and well there and it seems the locals were making sure Tony knew about it. "Arrested in Wimbledon" Tony stepped back in the host seat to share about his experiences at the Wimbledon Outreach. He discussed his arrest … [Read more...]