“On the offense” Does Not Mean Being Abusive

Being on the offense does not demand of Christians that we be abusive toward others.  Neither does it require Christians to be pushy about our doctrine.  Of course we believe our doctrines.  It means instead that we share an inner conviction about the truth of our faith in the Triune God, so that we seek, prayerfully, to wisely move others toward their own faith in the living God (Colossians 4:5,6).

Consider the Apostle Peter’s admonition in 1 Peter 3:15.  The first thing he states is ‘In your hearts reverence Christ as Lord.”  Primary to our engagements with others is our inner foundation of faith in Christ.  How that conviction plays itself in our daily lives involves the interplay between the leading of God’s Spirit according to specific circumstances.  Notice how the above verse continues, “Always be prepared to give a reason for the hope that is in you.”  Peter is not demanding that in every situation we unload a set of arguments.  He is urging each of us to become acquainted with the solid foundation of our faith in order that we may comfortably respond as opportunities present themselves.  Thirdly, Peter closes with the important qualifier, “yet do so with gentleness and respect.”  The Gospel of Christ is, at bottom, a liberating message.  We need to avoid situations where people are unnecessarily put on the offensive so they will be open, perhaps another day, to move in the direction of considering more of the truth of Christ.

How, in practical terms, can we more effectively be on the offense while maintaining engagement with other people that is comfortable to both parties?  It is my privilege on this very beautiful sunny day in Snohomish, to be at a seminar led by Greg Koukl of the organization “Stand to Reason.”  He is instructing Christians on extremely effective strategies for engaging with non-believers in Christ.  I cannot recommend him highly enough, and I urge you to visit his website at www.str.org