To a divided, problematic congregation, Paul penned, “Brethren, be not children in understanding: howbeit in malice be ye children, but in understanding be men” (1 Corinthians 14:20). Paul was not advocating that these brethren act childish, but rather become childlike – quite a difference indeed! To become childlike would cause these quarreling brethren (cf. 1 Corinthians 1:11) to put away their proud arrogance and then love and accept one another. Paul’s statement regarding childlikeness seems to be quite similar to the Savior’s (Matthew 18:1-4). Interesting is the fact that the answer to many congregational dilemmas can be found in the attitudes and actions of its youngest constituents (i.e., her children). Out of the mouths of babes (cf. Psalm 8:2; Matthew 21:15-16) often come encouraging, sobering words!
Regarding evangelism such is true as well. Nearly every congregation finds itself from time to time re-evaluating its evangelism efforts. Undoubtedly, the question arises, “What can we do to become more evangelistic”? “How can we win more souls”? While these questions are certainly sincere and seriously needed, often the answers are found in unlikely places. This author knows of a young man, who although is young in years, could teach most adults (myself included) some necessary helps concerning evangelism. Please allow me to share some “child-like” observations.
Firstly, this young man sees PROSPECTS. This author is often amazed at how seemingly everyone this young man meets is a prospect. However, is that not exactly what Jesus saw when He viewed the world in which He lived (cf. John 4:35; Matthew 9:37)? I wonder how often Christians fail to see each person they meet as a prospect. Everybody houses a soul that will be somewhere in eternity (John 5:28-29), thus everyone we meet is a prospect for Jesus Christ. Since this “treasure is in earthen vessels” (2 Corinthians 4:7), it is our distinct privilege and responsibility to use every opportunity to share this “treasure” with everyone we meet. Everyone is a prospect! This is certainly one “child-like” observation this author has gleaned from a particular young man.
Secondly, this young man sees POTENTIAL. It seems as though no matter what background, spiritually or physically, a person may have, this author has seen this young man note other’s potential. Just recently, as this young man viewed a person ringing a bell to collect money for a particular denomination, he said, “We should find that guy something to do for the church of Christ.” I have to admit, I was not thinking along those lines as I approached the storefront. However, this young man’s words hit me and I thought, how true! Every person we meet has potential that could be and should be being used for the cause of Christ. Obviously, zeal is not all that is needed (cf. Romans 10:2-3), but it is certainly a good place to start (cf. Acts 8:26ff). Oh, the potential that Satan is stealing from the Lord! Everyone has potential that should be used for the Lord’s kingdom! This is certainly one “child-like” observation this author has gleaned from a particular young man.
Thirdly, this young man sees PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY. Almost weekly I have heard this particular young man say, “I am going to school tomorrow and tell my friends about the church of Christ.” On other occasions I have observed him in a doctor’s waiting room handing out spiritual literature to those with whom he was playing near by. I have found myself embarrassed before God Almighty because I have not always used such occasions to personally evangelize. When these situations occur, I cannot help but think of Andrew, who personally told his brother about the Messiah (cf. John 1:41), or Philip who personally told his friend (cf. John 1:45). I wonder how many sinners would be converted to Christ, if each adult were to apply this “child-like” mentality. However, sadly, we often feel it is someone else’s responsibility to evangelize or become involved. This “child-like” observation has certainly made me think seriously about those with whom I come into contact.
So then, “What can we do to become more evangelistic”? “How can we win more souls”? In emulating this particular young man, we each must see PROSPECTS, POTENTIAL and our own PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY, and in doing so, I am certain that God will give increase (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:6)! So may I exhort you dear reader, IN EVANGELISM, BE YE LIKE CHILDREN.
