Mind the Church Words (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)

All things to all people

"To the weak I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some." Paul met people at their level so the message could reach them.

Right, but not helpful

DeWayne's concern is how believers talk around people who aren't saved, or who are new in the faith. Phrases that sound normal at a Monday night women's group, like "covered by the blood" or "spiritual warfare," can sound cultish to an outsider who has no context. You can be right as rain and still push someone away.

Some, not all

Paul says "save some." He was realistic. DeWayne recalled his mom pushing so hard to drag someone to Christ that she drove them off. Our part is to share the gospel. The increase is God's.

Ask questions

A practical tip: turn statements into questions. Nobody likes being told what to think, and we've felt that way since we were five. A question lets the other person arrive at the truth themselves. And before an important conversation, pray first and let the Spirit guide it.

Try this

• Notice one "church word" you use that an outsider might not understand.
• In your next spiritual conversation, ask more questions than you make statements.