A Word for My Christian Friends
Have you ever tried to talk to someone about Jesus and it seemed that the more you talked, the more the person you’re talking to got you off topic?
I was on Central Ave. in South Central Los Angeles when a man approached me from the little shop I was painting. I’ve had curious shop owners come check me out, so I was not surprised. But this was a big, muscular, stern-looking man coming my way.
I greeted him with a smile and began to chat with him. He was not chatty, so I went straight to reason I was really there. I began to talk about God. Suddenly he had something to say. He was a Muslim; one who had obviously spent time studying the Quran. When I said something about Jesus, he countered with something about Mohammad.
Then he said something that changed the whole course of the conversation. He said that Jesus said that he (Jesus) would give us another conforter, and that, according to my Muslim friend, Mohammad was that comforter.
When he said that, the words of Jesus came out of my mouth that ‘the other Comforter was the Spirit of truth whom the world could not receive.. He shall dwell with you and in you’ John 14:6. ‘Jesus said He will testify of Me’ John 15:27 (paraphrased). Other scriptures poured out of me about the Holy Spirit that I didn’t realize I had memorized.
The Muslim was speechless and found an excuse to leave quickly. I learned something very important that day. I did my best to compete with the Muslim for who could appear to be the most knowledgeable about their beliefs. However, when the Holy Spirit stepped in, the debate was over.
So if I can offer any advise, it’s this; study God’s word, meditate on God’s word, commit God’s word to memory. Then, when you talk to people, listen to what they’re saying instead of listening for a break in the conversation so you can say your piece. You’ll be amazed on how God’s word will address the issues being raised by the other person. The Spirit of God is a Spirit of love and power. Most often, God will give you a word of love to others, whereas this day He gave a word of power. However He chooses to do it, let Him do it.
Tags: Muslim
