Evangelism versus Proselytism

For many in our culture today any form of evangelism is equated with proselytizing. In part, this is due to the exclusive claims of Christianity, at least evangelical Christianity, that Christ is the only way. Our culture would require us to abandon our belief in the exclusivity of Jesus Christ to be free from any hint of proselytizing.

Proselytism Defined

But does proselytizing have to do with the content of our message or the manner of our sharing that message? Dr. Harold Netland, in his Dissonant Voices, says, “Proselytism is not a matter of the content of one’s beliefs but rather of the means one adopts in trying to persuade others to accept particular beliefs” - Page 312. He gives a definition of proselytism from the World Council of Churches’ Consultation on the Church and the Jewish People (1977):

Proselytism embraces whatever violates the right of the human person, Christian or non-Christian, to be free from external coercion in religious matters, or whatever, in the proclamation of the Gospel, does not conform to the ways God draws free men to himself in response to his calls to serve in spirit and truth.

Avoid All Proselytizing

As Christians we should never violate anyone’s human rights, ever, whether sharing the gospel or not. As Christians we should never use any form of eternal coercion when sharing the gospel. We should never be dishonest, or manipulative, or violate the dignity of people. As Christians, we should respect and honor people as made in the image of God. As Christians we should be full of grace, and patience, and kindness when sharing the gospel. We should not be involved in any form of proselytizing as defined above.

But Gracefully and Boldly Share the Gospel

But, as Christians, we must be sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ. Evangelism is the proclamation of the good news. It is the announcement of all that God has made available to sinners through faith in Jesus Christ. As long as we are full of respect, and kindness, and grace, there is nothing morally wrong with trying to persuade others of the truth of the Gospel. In fact, I believe the opposite is true. Netland says it like this,

To deny anyone the opportunity of a restored relationship with God by deliberately withholding the gospel would be morally unconscionable. One could well argue that Christians have a moral obligation to share the good news. –Page 313

Let us not bow to the cultural sentiment that any conversation about Jesus Christ is proselytizing, nor let us succumb to any underhandedness when sharing the gospel, but let us boldly share the Gospel with grace and truth. Let us fear God and not man.

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