Why are we so intimidated when it comes to sharing the Gospel? Are we afraid that it will ruin friendships? Relationships with co-workers? Are we afraid we might get asked a question and not have the answer? Are we afraid of the moniker of “Jesus Freak”?
Take a few minutes and watch the video of Penn (one half of the comedic magician duo Penn and Teller) telling a story about a man sharing the Gospel with him after one of his performances. Penn is a self-proclaimed atheist and believes vehemently that there is no God. Watch his response to this man sharing Christ with him.
Were you as surprised as me? Penn was touched by this man’s genuine care and love. He was moved by the fact this man would risk ridicule to witness to him (and trust me, if you’ve ever seen a performance by Penn and Teller, there’s no doubt there was a risk Penn might try to make a comedy routine at this fellow’s expense). I am sure Penn’s response to this man would have been different if this guy was holding a picket sign telling him to repent with a bull horn.
And I was blown away by his question, “How much do you have to hate some one NOT to proselytize? How much do you have to hate someone when you believe that everlasting life is possible and to not tell them that…”. Wow. Camp on that question for a moment. I was seriously convicted by Penn’s response.
So I ask the question again… Why are we so reluctant to witness to people? When we share the Gospel in authentic love, we should trust God enough that the person hearing will receive our words in the manner intended. And we must trust God enough that He will do the work of His will in the heart of the person hearing His Good News.
One thing is for sure, God was glorified in this man’s obedience, courage and genuine love for his fellow man.
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