The Challenge of Family Evangelism
The Great Commission: A Call to Near and Far
Jesus gave a clear and compelling command to His followers: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation” (Mark 16:15).
“Go into all the world” does not mean prioritizing preaching the gospel to people faraway and neglecting those who are near.
The traditional understanding of “near” and “far” often focuses on geographical distance. However, when considering the scope of our mission, the concept of proximity may be extended to encompass relational closeness. In fact, sharing our faith with those closest to us can be one of the greatest challenges for Christians.
Family members are among those nearest (closest) to us in terms of our relationships. Many Christians find it more difficult to share their faith with loved ones than with strangers.
Why Family Evangelism is So Tough
One believer expressed a deep desire to share her faith with her family, hoping to unite them in Christ. However, after years of unsuccessful efforts, she felt frustrated by her lack of progress. She wondered why family evangelism is so difficult compared to her work on external missions.
Why is this the case?
The intimacy and complexities of family relationships can make sharing faith particularly difficult. The following is just a small sample of potential obstacles:
- We know each other too well: Family members see our weaknesses. It can be daunting to present oneself as a spiritual exemplar while navigating everyday struggles.
- Unrealistic Expectations: Our hope for our family’s salvation can sometimes overshadow their need for time to process their faith. This impatience may unintentionally create pressure rather than fostering a nurturing environment.
- Relationship Baggage: Past conflicts or hurts can hinder open dialogue about faith, creating barriers to honest communication.
Many Christians have received advice to approach family members with love and patience when sharing their faith. They’re encouraged to live authentically, engage in spiritual conversations, and trust in God’s timing. While these approaches are valuable, there are still certain factors beyond human control that can influence these efforts. These factors include spiritual blindness, hardened hearts, and God’s divine sovereignty.
Becoming a Christian is a personal journey
Faith is a gift from God (Eph 2:8, 9). Christians play the part for being a help for others to discover it. They have attempted to share their faith with family members in various ways. These might include sharing Christian resources, direct conversations, church invitations, and relying on the power of prayer ‒ trusting God’s timing and grace to soften hearts.
They create a space for others to explore their faith. This journey involves learning about God, reflecting on His Word, and seeking answers. It’s a process that unfolds over time with the help of many believers.
When faced with ambivalence or despair in evangelism efforts, it’s crucial to avoid self-flagellation and backsliding in faith. Instead, focus on seeking God’s guidance and strength to persevere.
Here’s a quote from John Piper that encapsulates the idea of persevering in evangelism despite challenges:
“The greatest thing that happens in evangelism is not the conversion of the sinner, but the confirmation of the faith of the evangelist. So keep on preaching. Keep on witnessing. Keep on praying. Keep on loving. And trust God to do the rest.”
This quote emphasizes the importance of continuing to share the gospel even in the face of difficulties.
The Joy of Salvation and the Peace of God
It’s a wonderful feeling to see loved ones accept Jesus, even when they’re near the end of their lives. It shows how powerful God’s love is.
Sometimes, when we lose someone we love, we wonder if they’ll go to heaven. This can be tough if their faith wasn’t strong or clear. While it’s natural to seek answers, it’s important to remember that God gives salvation as a gift, and we cannot fully understand His plans. (Micah 4:12; Isaiah 55:8-9; Job 36:26)
God decides who goes to heaven. As it says in Romans 9:15, “God shows mercy to whomever He wants.” His love, fairness, and kindness are endless. We might not understand why people do what they do or how God judges them, but we can trust that His plan is perfect. His grace is enough, even for those who have a little faith.
In times of sadness, let’s hold onto our hope in Jesus. The apostle Paul said, “Nothing can separate us from God’s love, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 8:38-39) His promises bring comfort and peace when we’re going through hard times.
A Prayer
Sharing our faith with family can be a delicate balance. It requires wisdom, patience, and a deep reliance on God’s guidance.
Lord, grant us wisdom, courage and strength as we navigate the complexities of family evangelism. May our love for our loved ones overflow, and may our faith be a beacon of hope for them. Help us to trust in Your perfect timing and to find peace in Your sovereignty.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
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