Dealing with Unbelievers

Lecture is Pt. 2 of 3 in a series sponsored by Heidelberg Theological Seminary in Sioux Falls, SD.

I. The Contrast between believers & unbelievers.
A. Condition of unbelievers: Ep. 4:17-19; 2:1-3; Col. 1:13-14.
B. Condition of believers: Ep. 1:17-19; 2:3-9; 2 Co. 5:16-21.
The condition of believers & unbelievers shows a position of favor vs. condemnation - Jn. 3:16-18. This also shows that there is a need for believers to approach unbelievers. The question that must be answered is how the Scriptures instruct Christians to engage non-Christians.

II. Principles & examples that direct Christians in their interaction with the unbeliever.
A. Always be ready - 1 Pt. 3:15
Peter & John; Jesus & the woman at the well
B. Prepared with prayer - 1 Th. 5:23; 2 Th. 3:1
Paul’s request for boldness
C. Know the Scriptures - 2 Ti. 3:14-17
Disciples on the Emmaus Road
D. Speak the truth in Love - Ep. 4:15; Mt. 5:44
Jesus & the blind man; Jesus & the adulterous woman
E. Not ashamed of the truth - Ro. 1:16
Peter denies Christ; Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach & Abednego
F. Faithful to the truth - 2 Ti. 2:15
Noah, the preacher; Abraham & his sister
G. Willing to speak for what is right -Ec. 3:7; Zech. 8:16; Pr. 8:6-8
Lot in Sodom & Gomorrah; Joseph & Potiphar’s wife
H. Know when not to speak - Mt. 7:6 Jesus & the Pharisees
I. Influential living - Mt.5:13-17; Ph. 2:15-16
Salt & Light; The Unbelieving spouse - 1 Pt. 3:1-2; The man of Ps. 1; Solomon & his many wives

III. Practical rules to direct your interaction with unbelievers:
A. Be Prayerful
B. Be Clear
C. Be Simple
D. Be Loving
E. Be Informed
F. Be Willing to Admit Ignorance
G. Be Purposeful
H. Be not Alone