Recently someone asked me how we can convey our concerns when someone chooses an ungodly lifestyle.
Short answer: Let the Holy Spirit lead in each specific situation (John 14:26).
With this in mind, let's look at some additional insights.
Strangers:
God might prompt us to confront a complete stranger, but that’s rare. See Jumpers - Christians Who Inspire and Scare Us.
An unsaved acquaintance:
If we encounter someone regularly (e.g., coworker, neighbor, hair stylist, etc.), we should be “dropping hints” about things God is doing in our lives. In God's timing, this can lead to explaining salvation and the harm of sinful lifestyles (2 Timothy 2:24-26). See Name Droppers - A Natural Way to Share Christ.
An unsaved friend or family member:
Likewise, “dropping hints” is an effective way to prepare for discussions of salvation and sin with friends or family. But we have a more serious responsibility with loved ones. Our silence about sinful choices may be seen as approval. See Unpleasant, Unpopular, Loving.
A professing Christian, whether acquaintance, friend, or family member:
We have a responsibility to confront fellow believers about ungodly lifestyles. We must be gracious, but we must love them enough to warn them (Galatians 6:1; James 5:19-20). See Confronting Sin with the Right Intentions.
In all of our relationships, we should seek God's guidance, sharing Christ with the unsaved and encouraging and warning fellow believers (Matthew 28:18-20).
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:6).
Bible Love Notes
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