As faithful followers of Jesus, we're to be both salt and light in this society. But what does that look like in the midst of all the hostility and discourse going on right now? In this program, our guest teacher Aaron Pierce has the answer – as he continues his series, Not Beyond Reach. Discover how to be both holy and relevant when talking to people who would never walk into a church.

Main Points

Tribalism:

• Us versus Them
• Tribalism is a toxic trait of modern-day culture
• Tribalism existed during Jesus’ day (example: Jews and Samaritans)
• Jesus defied tribalism in a radical, counter-cultural way - John 4
• Jesus offended the religious people because He spent so much time with sinners - Luke 15:1-2 

The power of friendship:

• Friendship humanizes “them”
• Friendship allows you to demonstrate the Gospel in actions. - Philippians 2:3-4
• Friendship helps you really understand their perspective and communicate the Gospel effectively.
• Friendship allows you to earn the trust to challenge their views and speak truth.

Relevance versus holiness:

• Be distinct and clear that you are a Jesus follower… but not obnoxious or a “Jesus robot”
• Don’t be offended that non-Christians act like non-Christians (language, lifestyle, philosophy, etc.)
• The goal is not to “flaunt” your moral superiority, but the goal is that we allow them to see our supernatural hope, love, joy, and peace.

Adopt a missionary mindset:

• Start by actively pursuing people in your “Oikos,” or sphere of influence.
• Expand your “Oikos” by being relationally present in secular places.
• Ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to a “person of peace” and give you supernatural favor.

Principles to remember when engaging in secular places:

1. Relax, be yourself, and have fun
2. Harness the incredible power of asking questions and listening
3. Find common ground and genuine ways to affirm them.

Broadcast Resource

• Not Beyond Reach Resources
• Message Notes

Additional Resource Mentions

• Dale Carnegie - "How to Win Friends and Influence People"

About Chip Ingram

Chip Ingram’s passion is helping Christians really live like Christians. As a pastor, author, and teacher for more than three decades, Chip has helped believers around the world move from spiritual spectators to healthy, authentic disciples of Jesus by living out God’s truth in their lives and relationships in transformational ways.

About Living on the Edge

Living on the Edge exists to help Christians live like Christians. Established in 1995 as the radio ministry of pastor and author Chip Ingram, God has since grown it into a global discipleship ministry. Living on the Edge provides Biblical teaching and discipleship resources that challenge and equip spiritually hungry Christians all over the world to become mature disciples of Jesus.

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