What should I do if my friends reject the gospel?

Rejection is a painful experience, especially when it comes to something as deeply personal and profoundly significant as the gospel of Jesus Christ. When friends, whom you care about and want to share the joy and hope of your faith with, reject the message, it can be disheartening. However, as a non-denominational Christian pastor, I want to offer you some guidance and encouragement rooted in Scripture and Christian wisdom.

First and foremost, it is essential to remember that the call to share the gospel is not just about the act of sharing but also about embodying the love and grace of Christ. Jesus Himself faced rejection, even from those in His hometown (Mark 6:1-6). He understands the pain of being dismissed and ignored. This shared experience with Christ can be a source of comfort and strength.

When faced with the rejection of the gospel by friends, here are some steps and considerations that can guide you:

1. Pray for Them and Yourself

Prayer is the foundation of all evangelistic efforts. In the face of rejection, prayer becomes even more critical. Pray for your friends, asking God to soften their hearts and open their eyes to the truth of the gospel. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Romans, expressed his deep desire and prayer for the salvation of his fellow Jews (Romans 10:1). Similarly, your prayers for your friends are powerful and significant.

Additionally, pray for yourself. Ask God to give you wisdom, patience, and a loving heart. It can be tempting to respond to rejection with frustration or anger, but prayer can help you maintain a Christ-like attitude.

2. Continue to Show Christ’s Love

Actions often speak louder than words. Even if your friends reject the gospel message, they cannot reject the love you show them. Jesus taught us to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:39) and to love even our enemies (Matthew 5:44). By continuing to show kindness, patience, and compassion, you are living out the gospel in a way that can be profoundly impactful.

Your consistent display of Christ’s love can serve as a powerful testimony. St. Francis of Assisi is often attributed with saying, “Preach the gospel at all times. When necessary, use words.” While the accuracy of this attribution is debated, the sentiment holds true. Your life can be a living sermon that may eventually lead your friends to reconsider their stance.

3. Respect Their Free Will

God has given each person free will, and it is crucial to respect that. Jesus never forced anyone to follow Him; He invited them. In the parable of the sower (Matthew 13:1-23), Jesus explained that the seed of the gospel falls on different types of soil, representing different responses to the message. Some will accept it, and others will not.

Respecting your friends' free will means acknowledging their right to make their own decisions, even if those decisions are not what you hoped for. This respect can also prevent you from becoming overly pushy or aggressive, which can further alienate them.

4. Seek Opportunities for Dialogue, Not Debate

When discussing faith with friends, aim for open and respectful dialogue rather than heated debate. The goal is not to win an argument but to share the truth in love. As the apostle Peter advised, “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).

Gentleness and respect are key. Listen to your friends' perspectives and questions. Show genuine interest in their thoughts and feelings. This approach can create a safe space for them to explore faith without feeling judged or pressured.

5. Trust in God’s Timing

God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our expectations. The process of coming to faith can be a long and winding journey. The apostle Paul’s conversion on the road to Damascus was sudden and dramatic (Acts 9:1-19), but for many, the journey to faith is gradual.

Trust that God is at work in your friends' lives, even if you cannot see it. Isaiah 55:11 reminds us that God’s word does not return empty but accomplishes what He desires. Your role is to plant the seeds and water them, but it is God who makes them grow (1 Corinthians 3:6-7).

6. Reflect on Your Approach

It can be helpful to reflect on how you have shared the gospel. Sometimes, rejection may stem from the approach rather than the message itself. Ask yourself if you have been clear, compassionate, and respectful in your presentation of the gospel. Consider seeking feedback from other mature Christians or a pastor who can provide insights and suggestions.

7. Find Support in Your Faith Community

Sharing the gospel and facing rejection can be emotionally and spiritually taxing. It is essential to find support within your faith community. Fellow believers can offer encouragement, prayer, and practical advice. The early Christians often faced rejection and persecution, but they found strength and solidarity in their community (Acts 2:42-47).

8. Keep Hope Alive

Never lose hope. The story of the prodigal son (Luke 15:11-32) is a beautiful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. The father in the parable never gave up hope that his son would return. Similarly, keep hope alive for your friends. God’s grace is powerful and transformative, capable of reaching even the hardest of hearts.

9. Be Patient and Persistent

Patience is a virtue that is often tested in evangelism. The process of someone coming to faith can take time, and it requires persistence. The apostle Paul encouraged the Galatians not to grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time, they would reap a harvest if they did not give up (Galatians 6:9).

Persistence does not mean being overbearing but rather continuing to pray, show love, and be open to opportunities for sharing the gospel.

10. Rejoice in Small Victories

Celebrate the small victories along the way. Perhaps your friend starts asking more questions about your faith or shows a greater openness to spiritual conversations. These small steps can be significant markers of progress. Rejoice in them and give thanks to God for any movement towards faith, no matter how small it may seem.

In conclusion, facing the rejection of the gospel by friends is undoubtedly challenging, but it is also an opportunity to deepen your faith, grow in love, and trust in God’s sovereignty. By praying, showing Christ’s love, respecting free will, engaging in respectful dialogue, trusting God’s timing, reflecting on your approach, finding support, keeping hope alive, being patient and persistent, and rejoicing in small victories, you can navigate this difficult experience with grace and faithfulness.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. God is with you, guiding and strengthening you, and He is at work in the hearts of your friends, even when you cannot see it. Keep trusting, loving, and sharing the gospel, and leave the results in God’s capable hands.