I read many books by Dr. Francis Schaeffer during my college years. He was a Christian philosopher, apologist, and evangelist. He created a community called “L’Abri” in the Swiss Alps, where he shared the gospel with various intellectuals from atheistic backgrounds who came there for skiing, discussing faith while drinking coffee by the campfire.

Although he opposed rationalism that idolizes reason, he believed that Christian faith is rational, and thus, he insisted on giving sincere answers to the serious questions of non-believers. He led many to Christ through extensive and serious conversations ranging from philosophy, theology, literature, art, and the environment. However, he believed that faith is given by God’s grace, not by logic, and he prayed fervently.

I have always had the desire to spread the gospel like him, even though I am not as knowledgeable to provide persuasive answers to all questions. Since Jesus met me during my college years when I had many doubts and was studying the Bible one-on-one, I believe that sermons and Bible studies should be convincing.

Recently, during a three-week visit to Korea, I saw people actively evangelizing on the streets. I observed people standing at subway entrances, handing out tracts while playing recorded hymns and gospel messages, and a person dressed as Jesus carrying a wooden cross with others in Roman soldier costumes slowly walking through the subway station. Watching these scenes, I thought that it was a hundred, a thousand times better than not evangelizing at all. However, while I understood their passionate love for souls and zeal for evangelism, but I still felt like it was missing something.

That being said, there is an important aspect that we must address first regarding evangelism. No matter how wisely we present the gospel in a way that does not provoke rejection, the world will not look upon the gospel favorably. This is because the message of the gospel itself, which states “there is no way to salvation except through Jesus,” is in itself offensive. Despite Jesus having done so many good deeds, He was crucified for claiming to be the only way to God. Similarly, Paul faced persecution wherever he went because of the message he preached. The gospel is the greatest power and wisdom of God to those who believe, but to those who reject it, it is foolish and absurd, and even evokes anger.

Therefore, it is natural to face indifference, coldness, and ridicule when evangelizing. Nevertheless, in our attitude toward evangelism, we should emulate the examples set by Jesus and Paul. Jesus tailored His message to the individuals He met. The conversations with Zacchaeus, Nicodemus, and the Samaritan woman at the well were all different. Paul also quoted many Old Testament scriptures when preaching to Jews, but did not quote any when speaking to Gentiles.

Their attitudes were characterized by confident boldness without being servile, humility towards everyone, and always acting with compassion and love. I strive to continue diligently studying to provide sincere answers, and I wish to approach all non-believers I meet with kindness and humility. I want to evangelize in a way that fosters empathy and communication, rather than preaching alone to a wall. “Lord, please teach me more.”