Winning the Argument

I hate to admit it, but sometimes I get sucked into political arguments.  It would be nice to call them discussions or debates, but let's be honest.  They are arguments.  I have opinions on a wide range of topics and when someone is expressing the opposite view.....well, I have a hard time not expressing mine.

But one thing occurred to me recently.  It is possible that I have never, ever, ever, won an argument.  

Of course that depends on your definition of winning.  If what you want is to say certain things. If what you want is to make others in the room uncomfortable.  If what you want is to have another person wait there while you talk at them.  If these are your goals, then sure, you can claim victory,  But, if your goal is to change their opinion to yours?  Forget it.  It isn't going to happen.  

Think about this.  The only reason that you got into this argument is that they felt strongly enough about it to express their opinion.  They are as certain of their opinion as you are about yours or I am about mine.  Someone who is one the fence, won's stick around for the argument.  They will smile and walk away,

I think that winning an argument is just about impossible.  In order to have a chance at convincing the other side, they have to be open to considering their position on the matter.  Most of the time they aren't even listening to what you say, they are preparing their next argument.

As Christians this is important to remember.  We are called to make disciples of all nations, but we will never, ever, ever argue a non-believer into believing.  Ever.

Watch this clip from Pastor Chris.

You cannot argue a non-believer into believing.  Ever.  If we want others to see the love of Jesus Christ, we need to let that love flow through us.  We need to live a life caring for others in such a way that others may see it and say, "I want what they've got." 

And here is the real trick.  Loving people is not a sales pitch.  We don't show mercy, grace and love to people to convince them to restore their relationship with God.  We don't do it to seal the deal.  As Christians we need to love our neighbors because GOD LOVES US, and if the Holy Spirit is flowing through us, we can do no different.