In my earlier segment; mentioning prayer for people I wanted to say that I try to keep things scripturally focused. One example would be someone who is used to praying to saints from their traditions. In that case I will say according to the will of Christ; the Lord and focus on a person's spiritual needs; for instance with whatever their request is if it doesn't appear that they yet have saving faith.
Certain "catch phrases" or pretend debates among those preaching on the streets to get attention or other such methods I don't find appropriate. Another mistake I have seen is assuming that someone has a particular sin because they are involved with a sect that has a tendency to err in certain ways. So we assume innocent unless proven guilty; and even when we see apparent sin; it is the nature of sin which should be the focus; and also what triggers certain behaviors. There are a few people who are dangerous to be around on drugs or intoxicated. We also shouldn't get into lengthy discussions which may be interesting topically but taking time from our main mission which is to proclaim Christ and make Him be known. Also; although I believe in the doctrines of Grace (or 5 points of Calvanism); trying to get someone to understand such matters as to whether God has chosen them to repentance shouldn't be proclaimed. We SHOULD; however get past the misconceptions of "decisional regeneration" where we think we can live like hell and yet think we have "fire insurance". We also need to be careful not to look at those caught in sin or in a season of struggle and assume a person isn't saved. The Spirit will convict some and they don't need to be kicked when they are down.
Finally; seeing other believers should encourage us. We certainly should be teachable and appreciate wisdom and insight from those we meet who love the Lord. Eventually; hardship may draw more out to share their faith if He tarries.
In my earlier segment; mentioning prayer for people I wanted to say that I try to keep things scripturally focused. One example would be someone who is used to praying to saints from their traditions. In that case I will say according to the will of Christ; the Lord and focus on a person's spiritual needs; for instance with whatever their request is if it doesn't appear that they yet have saving faith.
Certain "catch phrases" or pretend debates among those preaching on the streets to get attention or other such methods I don't find appropriate. Another mistake I have seen is assuming that someone has a particular sin because they are involved with a sect that has a tendency to err in certain ways. So we assume innocent unless proven guilty; and even when we see apparent sin; it is the nature of sin which should be the focus; and also what triggers certain behaviors. There are a few people who are dangerous to be around on drugs or intoxicated. We also shouldn't get into lengthy discussions which may be interesting topically but taking time from our main mission which is to proclaim Christ and make Him be known. Also; although I believe in the doctrines of Grace (or 5 points of Calvanism); trying to get someone to understand such matters as to whether God has chosen them to repentance shouldn't be proclaimed. We SHOULD; however get past the misconceptions of "decisional regeneration" where we think we can live like hell and yet think we have "fire insurance". We also need to be careful not to look at those caught in sin or in a season of struggle and assume a person isn't saved. The Spirit will convict some and they don't need to be kicked when they are down.
Finally; seeing other believers should encourage us. We certainly should be teachable and appreciate wisdom and insight from those we meet who love the Lord. Eventually; hardship may draw more out to share their faith if He tarries.
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