Many people view the word “persuasion” with suspicion. This is the result of telemarketers trying to “persuade” you into donating money or buying something you do not need. Yes, the pushy salesperson brings to our minds one who is trying to persuade us with deceptive and manipulative speech or advertising techniques. Even still, there are verses in the Bible where “persuasion” is used in a negative way, denoting one who is corrupted and “persuaded” to being led astray into wrongdoing. For example, the Christian apostle Paul wrote to the Galatians: “You were running well; who hindered you from obeying the truth? This persuasion (Gr peismonē) is not from him who calls you.” (Galatians 5:7-8) Paul also warned the Colossians, “This I am saying so that no one may delude you with persuasive arguments.” (Colossians 2:4) “Persuasion” in this context is dependent on crafty arguments built on false foundations.

However, in his second letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul used the idea of persuasion in a different sense. He wrote, “You, however, continue in the things you have learned and were persuaded to believe, knowing from whom you have learned them.” (2 Timothy 3:14) This was a reference to when Timothy was you being “persuaded to believe,” in which his mother and his grandmother taught him Scriptural truths from the Hebrew Old Testament. In this case, Timothy was not being manipulated. (2 Timothy 1:5) When the apostle Paul was under house arrest in Rome, he bore a thorough witness to many, in which Paul was certainly not deceiving his audience. Obviously, then, persuasion is not always a bad thing. The account in acts tells us

Acts 28:23 Updated American Standard Version (UASV)
²³When they had appointed a day for him, they came to him at his lodging in greater numbers; and he expounded to them, testifying about the kingdom of God and trying to persuade them concerning Jesus both from the Law of Moses and from the Prophets, from morning till evening.

Persuasion: (Gr. peithō) The Greek word literally means to persuade, convince (Matt. 27:20; Ac 12:20; 18:4; 19:8, 26; 23:28; 26:28). Through the art of persuasion, one can cause another to adopt a certain position, view, belief, or course of action. Someone convinces or persuades another by bringing about a change of mind by means of sound, logical reasoning. Someone convinces or persuades another to adopt a new belief and to act on that belief. All Christians are to be apologists (defenders of biblical truth) and to evangelize (proclaimers of the gospel or good news, as well as all biblical truths). A Christian apologist is to evangelize, reasoning and explaining from the Scriptures, using persuasion to instill in others a conviction of Bible truth. (2 Tim. 2:15) Clearly, this was a mark of Paul’s ministry. Even Demetrius the silversmith, who viewed Christian teachings to be false, had this to say, “And you see and hear that not only in Ephesus but in almost all of Asia this man Paul has persuaded and turned away a large crowd by saying that the gods made by hands are not gods.” — Acts 19:26.

Understanding “Persuasion” in a Biblical Context

The term “persuasion” is often viewed with suspicion in contemporary contexts, as it can imply manipulation or coercion. However, within the framework of Christian apologetics and evangelism, persuasion is a biblical concept that involves reasoned argumentation aiming to convince others of the truth of the gospel. The Apostle Paul frequently used persuasion in his ministry. Acts 19:8 describes his approach: “And he entered the synagogue and for three months spoke boldly, reasoning and persuading them about the kingdom of God.” This passage illustrates that persuasion, when rooted in the desire to impart truth, is a noble endeavor.

The Positive Role of Persuasion in Evangelism

Persuasion in evangelism is about presenting the gospel in a compelling and thoughtful manner that encourages individuals to consider and, ultimately, accept the truth of Jesus Christ. It is not about forcing a decision but about facilitating an informed and heartfelt response to the gospel message. In 2 Corinthians 5:11, Paul says, “Therefore, knowing the fear of the Lord, we persuade others.” Here, Paul associates persuasion with a deep reverence for Jehovah, indicating that his efforts to persuade were driven by a desire to honor God and not merely to win converts.

Distinguishing Persuasion from Manipulation

It is crucial to differentiate between persuasion and manipulation. The former is transparent and seeks the good of the other person, aiming to enlighten the mind and appeal to the heart. It respects the individual’s ability to choose freely. Manipulation, on the other hand, involves deceit or emotional exploitation to induce someone to believe or act against their will or best interests. Ephesians 4:15 teaches, “Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.” This directive emphasizes that our persuasion should be grounded in truth and love, not in deceit or coercion.

Biblical Examples of Godly Persuasion

Biblical persuasion involves using God’s Word effectively and appropriately, understanding the listener’s perspective, and addressing their questions and objections with sensitivity and respect. For example, when Paul stood before King Agrippa, he spoke passionately and persuasively about his faith in Christ, to the point that Agrippa said, “In a short time would you persuade me to be a Christian?” (Acts 26:28). Paul’s response, “Whether short or long, I would to God that not only you but also all who hear me this day might become such as I am—except for these chains” (Acts 26:29), shows his genuine desire for the salvation of his listeners, not just a superficial agreement.

The Power of Persuasion Under the Guidance of the Holy Spirit

True biblical persuasion is not merely a human effort; it involves reliance on the Holy Spirit, who ultimately convicts and convinces the hearts of individuals regarding the truth of the gospel. Jesus promised His disciples in John 16:13, “When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth.” This assurance highlights that effective persuasion is spirit-led, aligning our efforts with God’s will and empowering our words to resonate with those we seek to reach.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the word “persuasion” should not be viewed with suspicion in the context of Christian apologetics and evangelism, provided it is practiced according to biblical principles. Persuasion, when executed with integrity, respect, and dependence on the Holy Spirit, is a valuable and necessary tool for sharing the gospel. It enables Christians to communicate their faith effectively, helping others to understand and embrace the truth of God’s Word. Thus, rather than shunning persuasion, Christian apologists should strive to master it as a skill for the glory of God and the expansion of His Kingdom.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).