Mu 201: Dealing with Tough Questions

Tough Questions May come from a tough crowd. Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick” (Matthew 9:12). We need to introduce Jesus to The unhappy The difficult

Opposition to Christianity

American Culture This is a post-Christian nation. Over 100 million unchurched in US – 1990: 86% self-identified as “Christian” – 2008: 76% But only 6% hold Christian beliefs! 2008 American Religious Identification Survey & The Barna Group

Cultural Opposition Religious apathy Criticism towards Christianity Attack from media Relativity versus truth

Growth of Non-Christians 228 million total Americans American Religious Identification Survey 2008

Growth of Non-Christians 228 million total Americans American Religious Identification Survey 2008

Media Criticism American media conveys Christians as Mindless Judgmental Scandalous

Christianity in the Media

“It’s All Relative.” “Truth is relative.” Whether you are Muslim or Christian, you will attain your believed outcome. The Concept: One God, many paths to reaching him.

A STEADFAST GOD

“It’s All Relative.” The Bible says there is one truth. Open to John 14:6. Christ is the way, the truth and the life – the only way to heaven – The one who has removed our sins.

“It’s All Relative.” Open to Hebrews 13:8-9. Jesus will not change. He is the same - yesterday, today and forever. God does not adapt to society. We must adapt to Him.

Other Religions God purposefully places us in lives to shed light: "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.” Matthew 5:14-1

“WHY DO YOU ASK?” Identifying the root of a question

“Why Do You Ask?” When someone asks a spiritual question, first respond with, “Why do you ask?” This will help you get to the root of their question. form an appropriate, sensitive answer.

“Why Do You Ask?” Listen intently to identify their emotions. Anger may be a guise for pain. Empathize: Jesus does! Read Hebrews 4:15. See them as people God wants to save – not your enemy. They are rejecting God – not you. Read Luke 10:26.

Law or Gospel? Based on their answer, determine which path. Law: God’s demand of perfection in what we do. – The Law accuses and condemns. Gospel” God’s gift of forgiveness. – The Gospel only give. It doesn’t demand.

How to Determine Law or Gospel Is this the decision- making stage? – Law Is this after the fact? – Gospel “Comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.”

TOUGH QUESTIONS ARE GOOD! They reveal interest versus apathy.

Our Response Thoughtful and informative Loving and merciful sincere

When You Don’t Know an Answer Don’t give up! We cannot answer every objection a person can generate. Not knowing is a good excuse to schedule a second meeting.

When You Don’t Know an Answer Don’t make it up! Respond with: “That’s a good question. I’d like to learn the answer, too. Let’s find it together.” Look together in Scripture for the answer. – This will connect them with Gods’ Word.

When You Don’t Know an Answer If you can’t find an answer, ask: “May I look into it and get back to you?” Bridge back to the Gospel! “I don’t have all the answers; but I do know what Jesus has done in my life. May I share with you?”

Use Sensitivity Be sensitive. Be respectful – not condescending. – They don’t speak church-ese. They may not disagree; they may not understand. i.e. “sin”

Avoiding Conflict Follow James 1:19 “Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” Be a good listener Think before you speak Don’t get pulled into an argument.

Conversations Gone Wrong Not every witnessing scenario will result in “Yes!” – Sometimes you plant a seed. – Sometimes you reap the harvest. It’s okay not have answers to all their questions. It may train you for the next conversation.

Spiritual Warfare The devil will do anything to keep the kingdom from advancing. Do not allow objections, tough questions or personal insecurities to keep you from sharing the Gospel.

Spiritual Warfare Read 2 Timothy 1:7. Ask God to give you His power. Combat the devil by sharing the Gospel. Read 2 Corinthians 10:3-5. Be on the offense through the Word! Know the Bible. Speak the Bible.