09Apr
Over the last two days, I have suggested a process to evaluate whether your ideas and inclinations are from you or God. Today, I would like to suggest a method of applying the tests when you are in conversation with someone else.
People frequently adopt the theological or philosophical positions they hold because they fit most comfortably with prior conclusions. That, by the way, is not automatically wrong. However, too often, belief commitments are not the result of careful study. Consequently, a thorough approach will usually not appear to have the desired impact. I say “appear to have,” because many will mull the conversation over until it later produces change.
In these discussions, we must first establish an agreed-upon foundation. Ask questions about how they arrived at their position. Ask them to show you in the Bible, if a biblical discussion, why they believe this conclusion to be correct. Ask them to describe from whom and where they found the most helpful information. In that discussion, you will begin to see the pattern by which they determine what to believe. Your response will need to follow, as much as possible, the path of their reasoning. You will most likely have to patiently deal with some deeply ingrained and often poorly reasoned presuppositions before you can effectively make your point.
Sometimes I ask, “If demonstrated by a thoroughly consistent and accurate study of the Scriptures, or from appropriate source material if not a biblical discussion, that the position you hold is wrong, would you change your position?” You must be ready to answer the same question sincerely. If they decline even the notion of altering conclusions, you will rarely have a noticeable impact. Politely point out that they need to reconsider the reasoning process. The refusal to even consider alternatives is a little like the saying, “I know what I believe; don’t confuse me with the facts.”
Know your subject and position well and lead gently as the Apostle Paul said: “as a nurse cherishes her children.” (1 Thess. 2:7)
Login To Leave Comment