Five Kinds of Skeptics

1. Followers of a pagan religion

Most have never heard a valid presentation of our Lord Jesus Christ and His work in a non-argumentative, culturally sensitive way. Story telling is a way of communicating the gospel that has proven effective throughout the ages for all cultures. An example: go to Shepherd's Storybook.

2. The uninformed

Many have Christian friends and even attend church but have never received Christian instruction in a way that reached their hearts. Their skepticism is due to ignorance. Invite them to meet with a small group that shows them love and acceptance. It is better if the group meets in their home, and better yet if the group includes other seekers or very new believers. It is often even better if a new Christian leads the group, one with whom the others can easily identify, and whom a more experienced Christian is mentoring.

3. Victims of faulty teaching

Many have learned, through no fault of their own, atheistic evolution or other pseudo-sciences. To help them know the facts, view Reasons for Faith:

Go to Assuring seekers and skeptics.

4. Hardened rebels

Their heart rebels against a moral God because of personal pride or willful refusal to repent of their sins. They often embrace eastern religions that have no personal God who wants to transform their hearts. God lets Satan, the 'god of this world,' blind their spiritual eyes. Do not waste time on close-minded people; they cannot think clearly about spiritual things. Pray for them and ask God to help them respond. If they do not, Jesus says to 'shake' the dust from our feet (leave) and seek others who are open.

5. Attention seekers

Some people listen to you present the gospel but do nothing about it, because they simply want attention. They will keep bringing up the same problems or doubts, to get you to spend time with them. Don't! To feed this unhealthy appetite reinforces the wrong side of their personality. Help them to serve others or disciple other newer believers if they know Christ. Do not let them become parasites on the body of Christ, draining mentors or caregivers of valuable time. If they will not serve others, do not continue to serve them; they need counseling on a different level. Refer them to a Christian counselor.