Discussion Thread – Gospel Message Friendships and Barriers (two replies)
You will then post two replies with a minimum of 150-200 words per reply by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Monday
of Module 5: Week 5 and on Friday of Module 8: Week 8.
For each thread, you must completely answer the assigned prompt and offer the needed personal
reflections required. For each reply, you must also completely address the areas noted in the prompt and
provide helpful commentary and reflections on your classmates’ posts. You are required to add and cite
scripture, course materials and or research in each thread and reply.
Discussions are intended to provide meaningful information to your classmates. When replying to them,
you should include substantive content using critical thinking. In each reply, share two specific positive
comments about what they did well. In addition, make two suggestions for how they could have
improved their thread. This is an appropriate place where research, course content and or scripture can
be added. Everyone needs encouragement. Sharing what they did well in their thread will help them to
know what they should do in the future. Making suggestions for improvement, by providing specific
content for them to consider, can really help your classmate improve in future Discussions.
Reply #1 – Zachary Jones, Apr 29, 2022
Zach,
I found your post enjoyable and encouraging. Thank you for your insights on the importance of
building a friendship with Islamic friend that could open the door to share the gospel with them. Finding
the common ground to in activities or events is a great way that builds a connection with others for
every relationship to start and grow. As their trust in you grows, they may share more personal
challenges. The example of their mother being in the hospital is a great situation to show that you care.
I want to provide a minor correction that Islam is monotheism, not secularism1. You mention
that you have “plenty of friends who have a secular worldview,” in your opening statement but most of
the post is referencing Islam. I wasn’t sure if you had a lot of Islamic friends or simply just claiming lot of
secular friends. Either way, I suggest in your research for preparing to share the gospel to not only use
the bible, but other sources that provide insights to Bible accuracy and give credit to biblical authors.
Dave
References:
Powell, Doug. Christian Apologetics. Nashville, TN: Holman Reference, 2006.
Reply #2 – Deborah Calfo, April 30, 2022
1 Doug Powell, Christian Apologetics (Nashville, TN: Holman Reference, 2006).
Deborah,
I related to your post on Human Secularism relatable because I have a lot of friends with that
worldview. Understanding your friends’ mannerisms is very important when approaching them with the
gospel. I have a few friends that are intellectual types and thanks to this course, I can see other ways to
show Christianity in intellectual ways. This is like your statements of Jesus paying taxes. Bringing
historically accurate proof helps bring the Bible alive. Remember though, we just present the
information, the Holy Spirit is the one who turns the light on in the mind and heart.
Your fear of rejection and not having the answer to questions your secular friends is
understandable. However, I’ve learned that they are not rejecting me, but God when they don’t want to
hear the gospel. Also, it’s practically impossible to know everything. When that moment arises, either
the Holy Spirit will give you the words, or simply acknowledge the question and say, “I’ll look that up and
get back to you.” That’s respectful and honest. Then make sure you do get an answer to them later.
Dave
