Soul-winning has traditionally been viewed by “church folk” as evangelism or witnessing. As Christians, we do talk about our faith, and we work to make sure that our lifestyles reflect that faith. We pray over lunch while we’re at work, we make sure we attend church on Sunday, and we thank God when we experience His blessings through various situations and events in our lives. However, I maintain that the best way for people to communicate the message that God wants us to convey is by living a life that consistently illustrates the love of Christ through fellowship, service to others, and a sincere faith in God.

In other words, I think that our strength as Christians and our impact in soul-winning occurs when we create opportunities to share not only faith, but life experiences and relationships that demonstrate Christ’s Word. I suggest taking the following steps when thinking about spreading your faith and making sure that it means something to those who encounter Christ through your example:

A 1 – 2 – 3 Approach to Soul-winning

1. Check yourself for integrity and sincerity in everything you do. Do you tell your children not to use the word “hate” and then find hate in your own heart when you’re watching the news or a political debate? Do you tell your co-worker to forgive the person who embarrassed them in a meeting, yet give one of your own family members the silent treatment for upsetting you at dinner? We aren’t perfect, but we can strive to be the best that we can be in every situation, admitting our mistakes and growing from our experiences.
2. Pray every day. Know what you’re asking for, expressing thanks for, and reflecting on. Study your Bible and know what to suggest to others who need direction and comfort; make sure the verses and your advice are relevant and informed. You are God’s messenger when the person across from you on the bus or next to you in the coffee shop doesn’t know His Love and His Word. If someone reaches out, seize that opportunity to impart your wisdom and your faith.
3. Make the time to express your faith by lending help in soup kitchens, at the library, with your kids’ extracurricular activities, in your own backyard with neighbors who need help, or anywhere you think your help might be valuable. Create opportunities to talk about your faith over dinner with friends, at night before bedtime with your kids, during philosophical discussions at work, or anywhere you feel it’s comfortable and appropriate to share.

"Sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you."

(1 Peter 3:15)

For more information and inspiration on soul-winning, I suggest the following books:

The Soul Winner by Charles Spurgeon

Soul Winning Made Easy by C.S. Lovett

Pittsburgh Followers

For a different type of soul, consider checking out the following local musical series from the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust:

Soul Sessions with Maysa on April 9, 2016 at the August Wilson Center and Musiq Soulchild on April 22, 2016 also at the August Wilson Center. Tickets available at: www.trustarts.org/events/series/soul-sessions/