January 26, 2003: Against Bait-And-Switch Evangelism

I like to quote from time to time a slogan I picked up from Presbyterian pastor and theologian James Montgomery Boice, who got it from former Moody President William Culbertson, namely: "What you win them with you win them to."

Let me explain. We Christians are agreed about what we want to win people to: faith in Christ, virtuous character, joyful worship, charitable works, fervent prayer, reverence for the Word. But it seems to me that we make the mistake of believing that we can win people to these things by means of completely unrelated stuff like entertainment, free hot dogs, guest musicians and a softball league. Then we're surprised when all we've really done is win people to entertainment, free hot dogs, guest musicians and a softball league. But why should we be shocked that they are reluctant to take up their cross and follow Christ when we have been so reluctant to make it clear that that is really what we are all about?

We must put Jesus Christ, and devotion to him, front and center at all times. Don't hide Jesus away till later. I have seen well-meaning missionaries put service first, and then puzzle over why the indigenous peoples won't make the transition from enjoying the social benefits we provide to following the Lord we worship. I have seen
well-meaning suburban Christians put activities first, and then wonder why their friends won't receive Christ after they had so much fun at the church's special events.

What you win them with you win them to. As Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "I determined to know nothing among you but Jesus Christ, and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2). Win them with, and to, Jesus.