I have always understood that it's useless to tell a non believer that - Bible Questions and Answers - Prayer Tents

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53. I have always understood that it's useless to tell a non believer that they are sinning, because they don't care or have spiritual eyes. Yet John the baptist obviously rebuked, corrected Herod about his wife. So should we tell a non believer that they need to repent and stop that behaviour? Thank you for your time, RAVEN
Question asked on February 25, 2022 6:18:30 pm

Answer

Hello,

What an excellent question!

Telling others about their sin is necessary to communicate the Gospel message. Our salvation only exists because we cannot have a relationship with God because of our sins. Therefore, we should be ready to tell others that they are sinning (2Timothy 4:2). However, we should do so with wisdom as God directs us.

At times, we may need to stay silent and wait for God's timing. As Christians, we believe that God knows all and has in mind the time for a person's salvation. With that in mind, it may be without much fruit to tell a person who is not interested that they are sinning. Instead, Jesus's instructions are to be in loving relationships with one another (See 1John 4). When God gives us an opportunity, we can comfortably talk about sin and God's provision for it.

Another reason we may need to keep silent at times is that we believe in the grace of God. God's gift of salvation is a gift so that none of us can claim we have accomplished it ourselves (See Ephesians 2). The same goes for when we tell others about the Gospel. It is not us who brings about salvation, but God alone. God may direct us to partner with Him in relaying the message, but it is not something we can boast that we said it better or on our own best timing. Only God can save, and we can only win people over by God's prerogative alone.

When God directs you to share the Gospel, don't fear but trust Him to give you the words to speak. Let God carry the conversation for the both of you.

Many blessings!



Answered by Dr. Sang Sur





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