The Art of Listening: A Key to Sharing the Gospel
When it comes to sharing the good news of Jesus, many of us get it wrong. We’re so focused on convincing others of our beliefs that we forget to listen to their hearts. I’ve seen this firsthand in conversations between Christians and non-believers. The Christians are more concerned with being right than with understanding the other person’s struggles and questions. As a result, the non-believer walks away, unconvinced and unimpressed.
Representing Jesus with Love and Understanding
We’re not just talking about winning arguments; we’re talking about people’s souls. We’re representing Jesus, and that’s a huge responsibility. The love of Jesus compels us to love people better. But how can we do that if we’re not willing to listen?
Drawing Out the Heart
Proverbs 20:5 says, “The purpose in a man’s heart is like deep water, but a man of understanding will draw it out.” We need to become people of understanding, seeking to understand others before we expect them to understand us. We need to learn how to ask questions, listen closely, and draw out what’s deep inside people’s souls.
The Power of Humility
Jesus was a master at this. Remember the story of the Samaritan woman at the well? He didn’t start by pointing out her mistakes; he started by asking her for water. He humbled himself, and she poured out her soul. When we approach others with humility, they’re more likely to open up to us.
Asking Questions and Listening
Jesus didn’t just give answers; he asked questions. He drew out the longing of the Samaritan woman’s soul, little by little. We need to do the same. Instead of overwhelming people with our words, we need to ask questions, listen, and draw out their hearts.
Sharing Our Stories
As we’re changed by the gospel, we want to share how it’s changed us. That’s a great thing! Our stories are powerful demonstrations of the gospel’s power to save. But we need to listen to others too, so we can bring the truths of Jesus to bear on their unique needs and longings.
Bringinging Others to Jesus
Our job is to testify to Jesus’s work in our lives while also listening closely to others. We need to bring them to Jesus, so he can meet their needs and fulfill their longings. To do this, we need to slow down, quiet our souls, ask good questions, and listen.
A Lesson from Francis Schaeffer
Francis Schaeffer said, “If I have only an hour with someone, I will spend the first fifty-five minutes asking them questions and finding out what is troubling their heart and mind, and then in the last five minutes I will share something of the truth.” That’s a great approach. By listening more than talking, we can share the gospel in a way that meaningfully speaks to the hearts of others.
The Cry of Every Heart
Every human is hungry for God. We all long for something better, more significant, and eternal. This is a longing for God, and only Jesus can bring it about. But they won’t come to see how he can quench their thirst if we don’t take the time to listen.
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