Engaging in Difficult Spiritual Conversations Without Losing Your Cool
People often say, "Don't talk about religion and politics in polite company," and for good reason. These types of discussions tend to hit our deepest values. Yet, Jesus also told us to share the gospel to the ends of the earth. We want to live lives of impact, to obey Christ's command to bring His light to the darkest corners of the earth, and to see our family, friends and loved ones transformed by grace. But many of us have ample reasons to experience fear and anxiety when engaging in spiritual conversations. (Or any tense discussion with those who view the world, and issues, differently)
As a result, we might find ourselves either shrinking back in self-protection or getting sucked into arguments that quickly devolve and turn ugly. Both responses challenge our ability to fulfill the greatest call Jesus gave us–to share the gospel with those who don’t yet know Christ. In this episode, host Jennifer Slattery speaks with apologist, pastor and church planter Dave Montoya on all the reasons these conversations feel so difficult and have the potential to turn so hostile, how to analyze our unique triggers, and create more fulfilling and fruitful discussions with those who hold a vastly different view of our world than we do. (While Jennifer and Dave's discussion center on the gospel, they believe you'll find the tips shared helpful in most challenging and uncomfortable conversations.)
Discussion/Reflective Question:
- What resonated with you most in this episode?
- When it comes to discussing big truths with those with whom you disagree, do you most frequently tend to get sucked into a tense argument or try to avoid the discussion, and why do you think this might be?
- Consider a "truth discussion" when you became reactive or withdrawn. What factors might have impacted your reaction?
- How difficult do you find it to see commonalities between yourself and those with whom you disagree on issues about which you feel deeply passionate, and why do you think this is?
- According to Dave Montoya, we should approach anger with caution. Why did he suggest this, and how do you feel regarding his perspective?
- What is one action step God might be inviting you to take having listened to this episode?
Connect with Dave Montoya on his church's website
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