Movement of Evangelism: Evangelism, It is All About Relationships

What is relational evangelism and what practical steps can we adopt to build our relationships with others? Rev Anthony Chua shares his thoughts and maps out the steps.

Evangelism is the foundation stone of our Christian faith. As Christians, we are being taught that it is important to focus on spreading the gospel and inviting others to come to know and experience the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.  

Some common evangelistic efforts include the public preaching of the Word of God, one to one witnessing, distribution of Christian literature, healing rallies and the like.

However, in recent years, there is a realization that a personal approach known as relational evangelism is far more effective to bring others to come to faith.

This method has gained prominence as it centers on building genuine relationships and trust with individuals before introducing them to the Christian faith. It leverages on the friendship and connection and seek to make an impact in the lives of people around us and kick start their journey towards spiritual discovery.

Simply put, relational evangelism is about living out our Christian faith in a way that naturally invites curiosity and spiritual conversation.

What is the Essence of Relational Evangelism?

One must be grounded that establishing meaningful relationships can become the most effective medium for sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. At times, it is an unfortunate “spiritual habit” that some Christians see evangelism as a one-time church event or a form of need-based transaction. Hence, relational evangelism should be seen an ongoing process whereby Christians intentionally get connected to people around us. The simple approach is to be authentic, loving and emphatic towards those who choose to trust us and allow them to see our Christian faith at work in our personal lives, even before we minister to them.

Simply put, relational evangelism is about living out our Christian faith in a way that naturally invites curiosity and spiritual conversation. It is for Christians to demonstrate the transformative power of God in our personal lives and situations we face. Even our Lord Jesus Christ Himself set the example for us to build relationships and get connected with people from all walks of life and circumstances. As a matter of fact, our Lord Jesus Christ befriended, connected and engaged with people deeply on a personal level, addressing their individual needs and concerns.

How to Build Trust and Authentic Connections?

A major component of relational evangelism is the ability to build and establish trust with individuals who cross paths with us. Many would agree that trust is the key foundation of any meaningful relationship, and having trust is particularly crucial when we explore and discuss deep personal issues such as spirituality.

In relational evangelism, one would agree that authenticity is crucially vital.

Therefore, to build and establish trust, one must lovingly and genuinely care for others, be interested in their lives and at the same time respect their beliefs and experiences. This is vital and it requires one to be patience, to practice active listening, and develop a willingness to engage openly and honestly with them.

Secondly, one must be authentic. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines authentic as “being actually and exactly what is claimed.” This is one area which can make or break the testimony of a Christian persuader.

In relational evangelism, one would agree that authenticity is crucially vital.

People around us are more likely to be receptive to the message of the gospel of Jesus Christ when they are able to see with their own eyes and feel it with their hearts in and through the lives of the gospel messenger. This must translate into a life of integrity, a life consistency between one’s words and actions, a life of transparency about one’s own struggles and on-going growth in faith. In a nutshell, authenticity fosters a sense of safety and openness to people around us and authenticity creates an environment whereby spiritual conversations can naturally take place.

The truth of the matter is that – Empathy can break down gospel barriers and fosters a sense of emotional and spiritual connection.

What about the Role of Love and Empathy?

Extending our Christian love and empathy are central to relational evangelism. One’s demonstration of our Christian love must involve more than just kind words; it must be evidenced by tangible actions that reflect Christ’s compassion and selflessness. One embodies the love of our Lord Jesus Christ when he or she is able to meet the practical needs of others and able to provide emotional, mental and spiritual support in times of difficulties and challenges which in return, makes the good news of Jesus Christ more relatable, attractive and appealing.

For empathy, one must possess the ability to understand and feel the emotions of a fellow human being. Such abilities allow one to connect with others on a deeper level by recognizing and acknowledging their experiences and emotions. The truth of the matter is that – Empathy can break down gospel barriers and fosters a sense of emotional and spiritual connection. Prayerfully, it could lead and pave the way for meaningful spiritual conversations about one’s faith in Christ Jesus.

Your main role is to continue to sow and trust that the seeds you plant will grow in time.

Five Practical Steps in Relational Evangelism

1. Invest in Relationships:

By spending time building and nurturing relationships with those around you. It can be a regular check-in with a colleague or a friend; or just having an un-rush meal together.  The goal is to show interest in the life of that person you are reaching out to.

• Live Out Your Faith:

Simply hold on and live out Christian principles in your daily life and interactions with others. A simple act of kindness at work or in school goes a long way for the gospel.

• Listen Actively:

Learn the art of active listening. You may be surprised what God would allow you to hear and know. Pay attention and give respect when someone shares his or her life with you.

• Share Your Story:

Always be ready and prepared to share your personal faith journey whenever appropriate. Your personal life stories are powerful and impactful.

• Be Patient and Persistent:

Relational evangelism is a long-term commitment. It will take time for others to open up to you spiritually. Your main role is to continue to sow and trust that the seeds you plant will grow in time. Galatians 6:9 (NIV) – Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

In conclusion, relational evangelism aligns with the biblical call to love one’s neighbor.

Matthew 22:37-39 (NIV) – 37 Jesus replied: ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’

As Christians make it a point to build and establish our relationships with others, let us pray fervently that Holy Spirit would open their eyes to see and open their ears to hear the message of salvation in Christ Jesus and open their hearts to receive the grace and love of our Heavenly Father.