The Bible teacher charges his people to take the gospel to the world. Metaphorically speaking, each person gathered gets handed a spear. The spear is the only weapon they have at their personal disposal to use for the gospel. Yet something’s wrong. The spear has no point. The shaft is plenty balanced and strong, yet that strength means nothing without a sharp piercing tip. Going forth into the world with their spears in hand, the people quickly learn that they lack the means to accomplish the noble task. Some try to use the spear, but without a tip it does not capture, but only bruises and bludgeons. After a few such episodes, they reason, this weapon must be meant for others who possess a much greater agility with it, than them.
But not long after, the teacher again hands out more spears. Hearing the impassioned words of their leader, the people anticipate that this spear shaft must indeed work! Out again with enthusiasm they go! But the tip-less reality cannot be overcome. Thus, the same result. And then there’s another message given . . . and then another. Every time, the leader offers more of the same spear shafts. The majority, however, now knowing the tip-less spear’s ineptness, deaden themselves to the words, saying, “Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice, shame on me.” The mission urgency that initially resonated within, wanes, and eventually diminishes. The adventure of the Christian life so promised, just didn’t pan out—at least, not for them.
My point? Merely telling people to tell the gospel does not help them influence effectively. Not today. Telling, or proclaiming the gospel, can actually be counterproductive. To the contrary, Christians need to learn skills to seed the gospel. This is entirely different than telling. These skills, when developed and practiced, form the tip of the spear. When the people know they have a pointed spear, something very dynamic happens—they get excited about going on a hunt!
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I’ve always loved that parable, and once again you and I see eye to eye! I hear you saying the didactic method of teaching (Pr. 29:19) alone will not get it done; the didactic method, coupled with the Socratic method of teaching is desperately needed…which was Jesus’ way of discipling! “Stop talking at me and start talking to me and walking with me!!!” The only true way to make the “point” sharp is through true discipleship in all areas of life…in my humble opinion!!!
Yes, the didactic approach will fall short!
It is amazing to see the gap that exists between the Bible teacher telling their people to share Christ, and their people’s understanding on how to do that with effectiveness. I wrote a whole book on it! I agree it requires discipleship; one that takes them into the missional manner of Christ. That is where average Christians can learn how to influence. Bless you Gino!