Evangelism and Dialog

Dialog means that those of different religions listen respectfully to one another's beliefs without criticism, and explain their own beliefs without inviting conversion.

Evangelism means that the news about Jesus as the savior for the entire human race is presented with the hope that the listener will accept this news and become a believer in Jesus.

Both approaches are common in the world today.  Both are valid and worthwhile for Christians. 

Dialog can be regarded as Christian obedience to the Great Command:  love God above all and love your neighbor as yourself.  Since those of all religions need to live together in this world, dialog makes it more likely that this living together will be with peace and respect.

Evangelism is Christian obedience to the Great Commission: make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, teaching them to do all that Jesus has commanded.  Evangelism leads to people making a change from one religion to another, but evangelism does not need to be disrespectful.

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