Faith Sharing and Personality Type

I continue to be fascinated by how differently God has made all of us. This factors into every aspect of our lives, including how we share our faith.

In his book Becoming a Contagious Christian, Bill Hybels and Mark Mittleberg give different

• Peter's Confrontational Approach--This person, like Peter, tells it like it is. They have no problem being direct, calling people to a different lifestyle. Most today are turned off by confrontation, due to the stereotype of Christians being judgmental and mean-spirited. However, there are some people who will only respond in this way, so we should value those with this personality.


• Paul's Intellectual Approach--Those with this personality/ability are able to answer difficult questions about faith, and have a good grasp of the faith. Usually a teacher type, who can do a more extensive Bible study with seekers.


• The Blind Man's Testimonial/Storytelling Approach--This person is great at telling their own story of faith, how God or a church has worked in their lives. This personal testimony is very much valued today, and can gain a hearing where others approaches may not.


• Matthew's Interpersonal Approach--This person is very good at relationships, is able to bring people together, and may be very hospitable or able to throw a good party. By bringing together non-Christians and Christians, this person helps others come to faith.


• The Samaritan Woman's Invitational Approach--This person is able to invite others to come and hear or see or experience a speaker, event, small group, or worship service. Their invitations seems pretty natural, and they are not afraid to invite.


• Dorcas' Service Approach--This person loves to do things for others--writing them cards, making things, buying things for others, serving them in some way. This service approach helps to break down stereotypes of Christians, letting others know that they are truly loved.

As you see, these approaches are very different, and each is valuable. My natural default in faith sharing is the intellectual and the interpersonal. I do a lot of service outreach not because it is natural, but because it is very helpful in reaching people today. I depend a lot on others who have invitational and interpersonal skills to reach others. They will often bring them into a church circle, and I will study with them. We need one another!

It may be that you have served someone for a long time, but struggle at inviting them or socializing with them. Hook up with a Christian who has an invitational or interpersonal approach, and let them use their skills to bring the person further along in the faith.

What approach(es) come most naturally to you?