Evangelism is like fishing. No fisherman attempts to clean a fish in the sea before he catches it. It is impossible to scale or clean a fish that is alive and still swimming in its natural habitat. Any attempt to do so would amount to foolishness.
The proper thing to do is to use a net or a hook with a bait to first catch the fish. It is then taken into the boat and properly killed and brought home before the scaling or cleaning process can begin. This is the proper procedure we too must adopt as fishers of men.
When next you see a sinner smoking or drinking, don’t begin your witnessing by lecturing him on the dangers of smoking and drinking. This is often counterproductive and, as we have noted, is not a very relevant part of your gospel explanation. It is diversionary and amounts to attempting to clean the “fish” before you catch it.
When we emphasize the gospel instead of does and don’ts, its power captivates convicts and converts a sinner. Once a sinner understands the beauty of the gospel, and makes a commitment to receive its free gift of clemency or salvation, he is better predisposed to reject and renounce improper behaviours. He is caught in the web of the gospel net. He yields his heart and self-will to the Lord. He becomes dead to sin and alive to righteousness.
Only under this state is the process of cleansing or progressive sanctification effective. The natural man cannot comprehend the things of the spirit, because they are spiritually discerned. It is therefore important to first make him spiritual to help him comprehend the principles of kingdom conduct. Only “he that is dead is freed from sin” (Romans 6:7).
Excerpt From: DYNAMICS OF EFFECTIVE WITNESSING By Dr. Steve Ogan
