I had a roommate in college from a brief time who was from Saudi Arabia. He tried to teach me about Islam and the Koran, but at the time I was agnostic and had no real interest. We didn't know each other very well but I was flattered that he took interest in my spirituality, and I knew that according to his beliefs, he was trying to save me.
I have since wondered why there is often a negative reaction towards Christian evangelism. If I tell an acquantance that I hope they will find their way to Jesus, it is likely that I have offended them.
Often, there is a hostile reaction towards any Christian activity. A friend of mine was once driving by a cross that was displayed up on a hill and she remarked, "why do these people try to shove their religion in my face!" In a way it seems strange to me considering the essentials of Christianity are centered on love and forgiveness.
Hello atofl, Jesus said If the world hate you, you know that it hated me before it hated you. If you were of the world, the world would love its own: but because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore theworld hate you.
Jesus said remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If the have persecuted me thay will persecute you also ; if they have kept my saying they will keep your's also. John 15:18-20. read further in that chapter and you will see. You can navigate you way through the world through the words of Jesus. They provide insight into everything. Also remember that we are to rejoice when we are shamefully mistreated for the gospels sake. We are ordered to accept mistreatment when it comes and to do good to them that do evil to us. We are not accustumed to taking it from anyone so we never find out about the power of God in us when we do these simple things.
I was struck in the face several times for pushing Jesus, here in America, because I quoted Jesus one last verse as I was getting in my car I was struck one last time. I remember being distant from the blow. I never felt it. I remember reading tortured for Christ by Richard Wormbrand and noting that those who were beaten in communist Russia had like experiences. I rejoiced in that but what I didn't know later was that because I lost blood in this event I am a living martyr. I like the company I keep. To them are given white robes.
Finally, Jesus said go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature, Stephen was stoned for telling the truth. Paul encountered every kind of oppisition and all the apostles were killed For the gospel. Who are we to deny Jesus his majesty. Jesus is Lord.