Sharing Your Story - Evangelism and the Problem of Sin

Click Here to Listen to the Sermon for Sunday, June 5, 2011 by Pastor Rodger S. Loar


Click Here to Download the Four Neighbors Activity


Scripture Reference:  John 4:4-26

Evangelism is a scary word for many Christians.  We know we are called by God to share his word with our friends and neighbors, but we are scared.  Evangelism brings up all kinds of negative connotations because of the rude, obnoxious, and pushy ways that people have been taught to do it.

The truth is, if you are living your life as a believer and making a positive difference in this world, you are already doing basic evangelism.  You don't need a big testimony of conquered drugs or prison life, you have a story that you are sharing, just by being you.  Don't be afraid to share your story, and don't forget to ask your friends and neighbors what their story is.

One of the largest stumbling blocks of evangelism is our attitude towards sin.  Yes, we should hate sin for its effects on us and on the people around us, but a condescending judgmental attitude will show people a God who is unforgiving and hateful.  God does hate sin, but he loves the people he created.  He loved us so much to send his Son to die for us!!!  All of us!  That includes the woman who is single and pregnant, the homosexual at work, the new age lady at the grocery store, and even you.

We must learn to use care in how we deal with sin.  Don't be afraid to ackowledge it.  Jesus acknowledges the sin of the woman at the well in our scripture today, but he gives her hope.  We need to give the world hope.

Share your story with others, live your life out in front of your non-believing friends, but for goodness sake, don't be an overbearing, judgemental, jerk.