Confrontation in Evangelism: A Study of Jesus' Encounters
This study explores the concept of confrontation in evangelism, drawing lessons from Jesus' interactions with Nicodemus and the young rich ruler. It examines the characteristics of individuals who may need a confrontational approach, the methods Jesus employed, and practical applications for our own evangelistic efforts.
I. Case Studies of Confrontation:
1. Nicodemus (Depended on his religious involution) - John 3:1-21
• Background: Nicodemus was a Pharisee, a member of the Jewish ruling council, and a respected teacher of the Law (John 3:1, 10). He came to Jesus at night, perhaps out of respect for his position or fear of association.
• Dependence: Nicodemus, despite his knowledge and status, was dependent on his religious understanding and adherence to the Law for righteousness. His questions suggest a belief that his current religious framework was sufficient.
• Jesus' Confrontation: Jesus immediately addresses the core issue: the necessity of being "born again" (John 3:3). This directly challenged Nicodemus' reliance on his existing religious identity and practices. Jesus emphasized a spiritual transformation beyond mere intellectual assent or outward observance.
2. The Young Rich Ruler (Depended on his own works) - Mark 10:17-22; Matthew 19:16-26; Luke 18:18-27
• Background: This individual was wealthy and held a position of authority (implied by "ruler"). He approached Jesus with a sincere question about inheriting eternal life.
• Dependence: The ruler believed he could attain eternal life through his own good works, claiming to have kept the commandments from his youth (Mark 10:19-20). His focus was on his own actions and achievements.
• Jesus' Confrontation: Jesus' initial response, "Why do you call me good? No one is good except God alone" (Mark 10:18), subtly challenged the ruler's understanding of goodness and potentially his view of Jesus. He then tested the ruler's commitment by asking him to sell all his possessions and follow him (Mark 10:21). This revealed the ruler's true dependence on his wealth and his unwillingness to prioritize God above it.
II. Characteristics of Individuals Who May Need Confrontation:
• Usually know the Bible - John 3:1; Mark 10:19: These individuals often have a familiarity with Scripture and religious concepts. However, their understanding may be intellectual or misapplied, hindering a genuine encounter with the transforming power of the Gospel.
• They have great respect for God - John 3:2: They may acknowledge God's existence and authority, but their respect might not translate into a personal relationship based on faith and surrender.
• They have great respect for Christ - John 3:2; Mark 10:17: They might view Jesus as a good teacher or even a prophet, but they may not recognize his full divinity and the necessity of his atoning sacrifice.
• They have a desire for eternal life - John 3:3-5; Mark 10:17: This desire is a positive starting point, but their understanding of how to attain it may be flawed, often relying on their own efforts or religious standing.
• "I have tried to live a good life" - John 3:1-2; Mark 10:19-20: They often have a strong sense of their own righteousness based on their perceived good deeds and adherence to moral standards. This can create a barrier to recognizing their need for God's grace.
• They are dependent on their own efforts - John 3:3-5; Mark 10:17-20: Their approach to salvation is often rooted in what they can do, achieve, or understand, rather than on God's initiative and grace received through faith.
III. The Approach of Christ:
• There is an immediate confrontation - John 3:3; Mark 10:18: Jesus didn't shy away from directly addressing the core issue hindering their understanding of salvation. He cut through superficialities to the heart of the matter.
• He focused on asking and answering questions - John 3:4, 9, 10-13; Mark 10:18: Jesus used questions to probe their understanding, expose their assumptions, and guide them towards truth. He also provided clear and authoritative answers based on divine revelation.
• He used illustrations from the Bible - John 3:14-15; Mark 10:19: Jesus drew upon familiar Old Testament narratives and commandments to illustrate spiritual truths and highlight their relevance.
• He showed love even in confrontation - John 3:16; Mark 10:21: While direct, Jesus' confrontation was always rooted in love and a genuine desire for their salvation. His interaction with the rich ruler, though challenging, ended with Jesus looking at him and loving him (Mark 10:21).
IV. The Offer of Two Options:
• Salvation and eternal life - John 3:16-17; Mark 10:21: Jesus clearly presented the path to salvation through faith in him and the promise of eternal life.
• Eternal judgment for sin - John 3:18-20; Mark 10:21 (implied): While not explicitly stated as a direct option in the encounter with the rich ruler, the implication of rejecting Jesus' offer is separation from God. In his conversation with Nicodemus, Jesus clearly warns of condemnation for those who do not believe.
• He explained the results of salvation - John 3:21; Mark 10:21: Jesus highlighted the transformation that comes with true faith (doing what is true comes to the light) and the eternal reward of following him.
V. Using Confrontation in Evangelism:
• Confront with the Scripture - John 3:14-15; Mark 10:19: Our confrontation should always be grounded in the authority of God's Word. We must use Scripture to challenge false beliefs and present the truth of the Gospel.
• Confront with love - John 3:16-17; Mark 10:21: Our motivation must be genuine love and concern for the individual's eternal well-being. Confrontation without love can be harsh and unproductive.
• Confront by highlighting options and consequences - John 3:16-21; Mark 10:21: Clearly present the choice between accepting Christ and facing the consequences of rejecting him. Explain the blessings of salvation and the reality of judgment.
- How to Evangelize With Compassion
- 7 Privileges of the Christian Life
- 7 Attitudes Every Christian Should Have Ephesians 4:24
Conclusion:
Jesus' encounters with Nicodemus and the young rich ruler provide valuable insights into the necessity and method of confrontation in evangelism. While not every evangelistic encounter requires direct confrontation, there are individuals whose deeply held beliefs, self-reliance, or misinterpretations of Scripture necessitate a direct yet loving challenge. By following Jesus' example of speaking truth with love, grounding our confrontation in Scripture, and clearly presenting the options and their eternal consequences, we can effectively communicate the Gospel and call people to genuine faith in Christ.
