God's word instructs us to "persuade men" The Greek root is peithÅ (pronounced "pie tho") means to prevail on (a person) to do something, as by advising or urging: and "to induce to believe by appealing to reason or understanding; to convince." It's synonyms - urge, influence, move, entice, impel, induce, imply influencing someones thoughts or actions.
There are no absolutes on how this action of persuading people should take place. Because there are so many believers with such diverse understanding of God and His word, that I cannot say how you should persuade people. That is something between you and God. Everyone of us needs to have a personal relationship with God, that allows Him to lead us in the direction that He intends for us to go.
But we do get a clue from 2 Corinthians 5:11 - The Amplified says it well " Therefore, being conscious of fearing the Lord with respect and reverence, we seek to win people over [to persuade them]. But [a]what sort of persons we are is plainly recognized and thoroughly understood by God, and I hope that it is plainly recognized and thoroughly understood also by your consciences (your inborn discernment).
"We seek to win people over [to persuade them]. " It's something that I want to do. It is the desire of my heart. I seek to win people over by my words and action and my lifestyle. The Amplified continues ... "But what sort of persons we are is plainly recognized and thoroughly understood by God" God knows our hearts and motives and understands how to use us best to fulfil His plan and purpose.
Have you ever looked at people and thought how their lives inspire you. Their manner of speech is inspiring to you. God has someone for everyone. Not every preacher or believer has inspired me. But God had specific people whom He brought across my path at the right time who "persuaded" me and inspired and encouraged me.
He has someone like that for you. But He also has you for someone else. The secret is to let the Holy Spirit in you "persuade" others through you. 1 Peter 4:11 "If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified ..."
The dictionary meaning for the word "oracle" is ... a person who delivers authoritative, wise, or highly regarded and influential pronouncements. A divine communication or revelation. Any person or thing serving as an agency of divine communication. Any utterance made or received as authoritative, extremely wise, or infallible".
Every believer is a messenger of the Lord and whatever we say or do, we need to make sure that God is glorified through it. Ask God for wisdom and He will give it to you.
James 1:5 (KJV) " If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
"Father, give us the wisdom to know what to speak and only when You direct us by Your Holy Spirit, In Jesus Name, Amen"
Be blessed,
Gil Howard-Browne
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