My response to Paul Washer’s YouTube message on Evangelism:
“I don’t really know much of Paul Washer but agree with him regarding repentance, conversion, and sanctification. He’s right. Church invitations, praying to accept Christ, and asking Jesus to “come into my heart” are nowhere found in Scripture, including the Book of Acts. As you know, salvation is solely the work of God who draws sinners to Christ (John 6:44), prompts sinners to confess Christ by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 12:3), and continues to work in the lives of believers’ until Christ returns (Phil. 1:6). Repentance is also a work of God (2 Cor. 7:10), and ongoing sanctification is a given (Eph. 4:23-24). These are results of HEARING (“listening” to) and BELIEVING the gospel (Eph. 1:13). Paul Washer is right. The church has largely failed to biblically present the gospel, properly disciple new believers, and encourage sanctified living. The “gospel” it presents is cheap, giving the impression that belief is mere mental ascent (“sprinkled” with a shallow prayer) that brings conversion (it does not). Holy living isn’t considered, and discipleship training is either shallow or nonexistent. Finally, if the church follows the model of Acts 2:41-47, then it could truly be said that “the Lord was adding to their number day by day those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47b). So, I agree with Washer’s view on Evangelism. However, I’d like to know what’s his view on eternal security. That’s another very significant topic for discussion.” Blessings!
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