Posture Matters: Witnessing with Grace

“Evangelism is not a professional job for a few trained men, but is instead the unrelenting responsibility of every person who belongs to the company of Jesus.” (Elton Trueblood)

When it comes to being witnesses for Jesus, our mindset and posture hugely impact how our words and deeds are received. They frame every interaction, shaping how we relate to people who don’t yet know Him.

For instance, when we train people in healing the sick through the Spirit’s empowering, we often will ask the room, “What’s the goal of praying for the sick?” There’ll be a pause ("Is this a trick question?!"), and then someone will suggest, “That they get healed?” Our response is, yes, of course we all absolutely want that - but the supernatural part is not within our gift. However, what we can take responsibility for is that the one receiving prayer leaves that encounter having felt genuinely loved and cared for. Whether or not the healing comes in that moment, we can draw them closer to God through our posture. The goal is that they experience the Father's love in a way that is meaningful to them.

Paul described something similar in 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 (NIV), “Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible... I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”

Paul wasn’t fake or manipulative, nor did he compromise his beliefs. He was empathetic, and entered people’s worlds with humility and respect for their experiences. Paul was willing to set aside his own preferences and cultural norms to meet people where they were. He was focused on connection, not control.

Jesus modeled the same heart. In John 8:11 (NIV) a woman caught in adultery was dragged before Him, notably without the male partner. Jesus didn’t shame her, and His words were full of love, kindness, and invitation, even while acknowledging her sin. “‘Then neither do I condemn you,’ Jesus declared. ‘Go now and leave your life of sin’.” His posture of mercy created space for an invitation into repentance and transformation.

So what does this look like for us? Here are a few mindsets that make space for Jesus.

• Be loving - We are called to love the lost, not to judge them. Billy Graham once said, “It is the Holy Spirit’s job to convict, God’s job to judge, and my job to love.” Every person carries profound worth, even if their views don’t align with ours.
• Be joyful - Be open-hearted and not mean-spirited. Laughter and fun is attractive and breaks down barriers. “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near.” (Philippians 4:4-5, NIV)
• Be kind - Paul reminds us that, “God’s kindness is intended to lead you to repentance” (Romans 2:4, NIV). Practically, think about how you make them feel. Do people leave your presence like the woman caught in adultery left Jesus’ presence?
• Be wise - To build relational capital, live the wisdom of Colossians 4:5 (NIV), “Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity.” Instead of platitudes and easy clichés, bring the wisdom and presence of Jesus.

When Peter instructs us to share our faith, he immediately clarifies that we should do so in a relationally kind way. “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, NIV)

When our mindset is shaped by prayer, wisdom, and grace, people experience something different. They encounter the welcome of Jesus through us. And in that kind of environment, the Spirit has room to take our words and posture and draw those far from Jesus a step or two closer to God.

VIDEO: Profound Conversations

We've shot a quick video from our back yard with some real life testimony on the power of profound conversations.

Your Next Steps

1. Recall a time you felt judged or belittled. How can you avoid giving that same horrible feeling to others?
2. Think of a lost friend with whom you’re building a friendship. How can you make them feel seen and loved this week?
3. Invite the Spirit to shape your posture so gentleness and respect mark every word.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You for loving me with truth and grace. Shape my heart, words, and posture so others encounter Your love through me. Spirit, breathe on my interactions with those who don't yet know You, so they draw ever closer to Your loving embrace. In Your mighty name, Amen.

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