Online evangelism comes with some unique challenges. People will say things they would never say face-to-face. It can also be difficult to understand tone or context based on how some communicates. Regardless of the situation, a true evangelical attitude starts with a loving heart prepared to engage all questions and brokenness with grace.

The issue someone brings will occasionally be something you never expected and have no experience within your own life. The way we prepare ourselves for this challenge is through prayer. We encourage prayer before every volunteer session. Prayer should also occur during and after each conversation.

The beauty of evangelism is that the Holy Spirit is in charge no matter where the seeker is in their spiritual journey. It may be the first step and very rough or it could be the step when God allows you to be a part of that person accepting Jesus as their Lord and Savior. No matter where the conversation falls on that spectrum, you should start in prayer simply asking for the peace, patience and love to share the Gospel. The words will come, and the results are out of your control.

Additionally, in our desire to help it is easy to forget that real communication and a connection take place through listening. There is a natural excitement to wanting to share the Gospel. Unfortunately, we can at times let this trick us into thinking that we must have the answer to every question. Every person is different, and his/her circumstances are unique. The Gospel message does not change but how we make it relevant to each seeker is dependent on us listening and learning what is truly happening with every person.

One way to learn more about a seeker and make them feel you care is to ask questions. This involves thinking about what information may unlock the real trouble that this person is dealing with as well as thinking about how to transition into the Gospel. An example is when a seeker shares all the problems and issues they are dealing with and how life has gone wrong. One simple question that can transition the conversation is to ask …“What is your relationship like with Jesus?” This tells us a lot about where this person stands spiritually and how to proceed.

Many people also come online with a focus on sinful behavior. We are not here to condemn or judge but we do not endorse any sinful behavior. It is helpful to admit your own sin. It is also important to help others recognize God loves us and Jesus died for us despite our sin. However, it is best to comment on sinful behavior using the Bible as the basis for categorizing the behavior as sinful. In this way, it is not you making a personal determination as to what constitutes sin, but rather the Word of God telling us that certain activities are not good for us and are sinful.

No matter how awkward a conversation may start, you never know when you may meet someone that is open to a change of heart and the truth of the Gospel. Do not be discouraged if the conversation does not go as you planned or wished. Be faithful and trust that the Holy Spirit is always at work.