1. When Jesus gave His Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), He taught His followers to be involved in evangelism. 2. When we are given opportunities to influence others on behalf of the Lord, we must take advantage of them. 3. In 1 Peter 3:15 an important matter relating to evangelism is addressed that we are considering today: "answering questions." 4. As we think about "answering questions," the first point we need to make is that . . .
Discussion:
I. SOME PEOPLE AND SOME QUESTIONS ARE TO BE AVOIDED
A. According to Proverbs 26:4-5, some fools are not to be answered. B. Foolish questions are to be avoided (2 Timothy 2:23; Titus 3:9). C. Foolish and ignorant questions are to be avoided because they result in strife. D. However, when people ask honest questions with the right motives, . . .
II. WE ARE TO GIVE CORRECT SCRIPTURAL ANSWERS
A. Speaking "sound doctrine" is mentioned in Titus 2:1. B. To answer questions with "sound doctrine," we must have a good knowledge of the Scriptures, and this requires diligent study. C. We need to be able to "show" people what the Bible teaches [most will really appreciate this]. D. If someone asks a question that you cannot answer, say "I don't know, but I will study it and get back with you." E. People respect honesty, and they will appreciate the effort you put forth to look up the answer for them. F. In addition to answering questions with correct answers, . . .
III. WE ARE TO GIVE CAREFUL ATTENTION TO THE WAY WE ANSWER QUESTIONS
A. Let us examine some instructions that were given to 2 evangelists. 1. (Titus 2:7-8) Not only are we to answer questions with "sound doctrine," but we are to also answer with "sound speech" that cannot be used against us. 2. (2 Timothy 2:24-26) Notice that gentleness, patience, and meekness are to be demonstrated as we endeavor to teach people (1 Peter 3:15 -- we are to answer "with meekness and fear"). B. Let us examine some instructions that relate to our speech, in general. 1. (Ephesians 4:29) We are to avoid using "corrupt communication." a. "Corrupt communication" includes any kind of language that is not wholesome. b. We must use good judgment concerning the things that we say, and we must avoid bad habits concerning our speech. c. Rather than use "corrupt communication," we are to use language that edifies and ministers grace unto those who hear us. 2. (Colossians 4:6) When we answer questions we are to do so with grace and good taste. 3. Let us remember the value of saying the right thing at the right time in the right way (Proverbs 25:11).
Conclusion:
1. An important part of evangelism is being ready to answer questions. a. Some people and some questions are to be avoided. b. We are to give correct answers from the Bible to questions we are asked. c. We are to give careful attention to the way we answer questions. 2. During His ministry Jesus was asked a variety of questions, and He demonstrated great wisdom in His answers. 3. Let us examine the ways that Jesus answered questions and follow His example.
