Evangelism 101

Yesterday we were taught Evangelism 101. Around 6:00 am I went to ride my exercise bicycle. Just a few minutes into it a lady came in and sat on the other bike and wanted to talk in English. I don't know how they know we're Americans, but they do. They all seem to know. Anyway we were talking and getting to know each other, and she asked if we could get together sometime as couples. Later that afternoon she called and invited us over for coffee, which means french rolls with meat & cheese, fruit, assorted sweets and, of course, coffee. Good strong Brazilian coffee. In other words dinner. They knew we were missionaries so after the cultural and political discussion was more or less over, we started talking our faiths. I assume that they were Catholics because of something Marzina said in the morning, but after a while it became clear that they were spiritists. They believe God is in everything and that if we are only complete, we can be like God and do much of what He does.

To learn more of what they believe follow this link: http://www.spiritwritings.com/kardecspiritstoc.html. Or look under Wikipedia for the definition of spiritists. Brazil is the leading country for this religion.

Imagine trying to talk about such a deep subject with the language capability of a 1 year old. Rebecca understood most of what he was talking about. I didn't have a clue. After a interesting debate, we left under friendly terms with the goal of meeting again.

So we were evangelized. Make an acquaintance, get to know them a little, invite them over, FEED THEM, have engaging discussions, then talk about God by first finding common ground and then talk about the differences. Quite effective.

I am going to engage Edgar for more discussions. Since spiritists believe only through understanding can one evolve, I'm quite sure he will want to get together. It will be interesting because he will have to talk as a baby with me because of my limited Portuguese. I will bring both my dictionaries. It will be slow going, but I will be able to learn what they believe and hopefully, he will gain a saving understanding of Christ Jesus.

Since our discussions will be a very slow process, I will be posting questions on how best to answer what he tells me. I will be praying for discernment knowing what it says in Galatians:
Galatians 6:1-2 Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted. 2 Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

More to come.