Pre-Evangelism Q&A

Q: What are some examples of “pre-evangelism” in Jews for Jesus?

A: Most of our “love and serve” initiatives (such as meals for homeless people in Tel Aviv, shelter for women in Tel Aviv caught in addiction and sex trafficking, care packages for soldiers in the Israel Defense Forces, etc.) are pre-evangelistic in nature.

Q: How do these initiatives lead to gospel conversations?

A: People know that we are Jews for Jesus, and many ask why we are offering these services. This often opens doors to speak about our faith. Some of our initiatives, such as our women’s shelter, include times of Bible-based conversations.

Q: Do you see pre-evangelism as a means to an end?

A: No. While we always hope that pre-evangelism will lead to gospel conversations, our interest in or concern for others should never be contingent on whether or not they choose to learn more about Jesus. We tell people about Jesus because we care about them; we don’t care about them in order to tell them about Him.

Q: Doesn’t people’s urgent need for the gospel require that we go straight to the point: they need Jesus?

A: Imagine you were holding a test tube containing the life-saving cure to a fatal illness. You wouldn’t assume that everyone you meet is aware of their illness or able to believe you are holding the cure. Urgency motivates us to look for every opportunity to share the gospel, but it also requires us to be patient and wise about how we deliver it.

Q: What happens if I share the gospel before someone is ready to hear it?

A: Remember, God has the power and grace to use your best efforts, as well as the efforts that could use a little more practice.

Q: Is pre-evangelism always necessary in order to share the gospel?

A: No. We sometimes meet people who are ready to hear the gospel, and we have the joy of reaping where others have sown. Likewise, God often uses others to reap where we have sown (see John 4:37).