Gospel Friendships

Not Enemies

• The gospel and goodwill are not enemies of one another. 
• To share the gospel with someone doesn’t mean you have to be rude.
• Being kind to someone doesn’t mean you must water down the message.
• You must learn the secret of having evangelistic friendships or displaying friendly evangelism.

1 Thessalonians 2:7-12

• When Paul’s mission team arrived in Thessalonica, they were labeled as those who “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6), and that reputation served them well. 
• As they shared the gospel with the citizens, they witnessed many conversions. 
• The change in the area was so noticeable that opponents persecuted them greatly. 
• In fear that such hard times would trouble new believers, Paul fled from the city to reduce the tension (Acts 17:10).

Gentleness

• Instead of burdening the people, they cared for them (2:7). 
• He knew we all need gentle caretakers to help us develop as we follow Christ. 
• All mature and immature believers need intentional, patient, loving, and endearing people to further our discipleship. 

Presence

• Paul mentioned giving the church two key things: Christ’s gospel and his example (2:8). 
• Delivering information without presence is impersonal. 
• It’s unfaithful to befriend someone without giving them the news that can change their life. 

Credibility

• We cannot be saved without the gospel, but most people receive the gospel from someone with established credibility. 
• You cannot simply claim you love someone if you are unwilling to share God’s love with them. 
• Evangelism takes proclamation (gospel) and incarnation (presence).

Love

• We only love someone ultimately once we become intentional about their spiritual condition. 
• The gospel is the power of God for salvation (Rom. 1:16), but our care often creates the potential to be heard. 
• Be present in the lives around you, and share with them the message of the life that can change theirs. 

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