One of the advantages of having this app on your phone is that you always have it with you so that you will "always be ready to tell everyone who asks you why you believe as you do. Be gentle as you speak and show respect."1 Peter 3:15 (NLT)One of the advantages of having this app on your phone is that you always have it with you so that you will "always be ready to tell everyone who asks you why you believe as you do. Be gentle as you speak and show respect."1 Peter 3:15 (NLT)
Before you show the app, say a quick and silent prayer. I like to pray according to John 16:8, that the Holy Spirit would be at work convicting the person of sin, of Christ's righteousness, and of judgment.
And He, when He comes, will convict the world concerning sin and righteousness and judgment; (NASB)
And pray boldly that they might be SAVED. (Romans 10:1)
And, depending on the environment, you may need to pray that God would keep the next few minutes free from distractions.
Then you can say, "I have an app here on my phone which describes in about 5 minutes what I believe. Take a look and let me know what you think." Cue up the app, get beside them and hand them your phone. Be ready to help them with the navigation. If they are a good reader, you may wish to turn the volume off and let them go through it faster.
If they hit NO at any point, start praying silently again for the Holy Spirit's conviction.
When they get to the sinner's prayer, hit the Pause (II) button and lead them in prayer yourself if you can. Then after the prayer is done, you can continue.
If they ask you a question, pray quickly for the Holy Spirit to give you the right words to say, then do your best to answer the question. If you don't know the answer, that's OK. You're not expected to know everything. You can answer something like, "I don't know. I'm still learning some of this myself. I'll try to find out and get back to you." You can also call 1-888-NEED-HIM (888-633-3446) or go to chataboutjesus.com . They have agreed to support this app.
Some questions, especially the theoretical questions about other people are an attempt to deflect the focus off of themselves. Get back to "what are you going to do?"
Other times, you'll encounter resistance because they have been mistreated by a father figure or have felt abandoned by God. These situations require prayer and healing. Listen with gentleness and respect.
If they're not ready to make the change in their life, don't push too hard. You don't want to deliver a premature baby or pick an unripe fruit. But always try to leave the door open for further discussion when they are ready.
Copyright 2015 John Stolberg