How to share the Gospel with sexual sinners without sounding like a bigot

I was recently asked about sharing the gospel when the subject of a person’s sexual sin comes up in conversation. They wanted to know how to proceed without sounding like a bigot or coming across as hyper-judgmental. That’s a tough question. I know because I often write and speak about sexual sin. I’m usually trying to simply communicate what God says about the subject. Despite that modest goal, people routinely get upset, no matter what approach I take or how calmly and graciously I communicate. So, here are a few thoughts I shared about this vexing question.

First, lower your expectations. Expect that most times when you share your biblical convictions — especially on matters pertaining to sexuality — you will be perceived as judgmental and bigoted. It doesn’t matter if you’re careful to be compassionate and caring. The mere fact that you’re talking about what the Bible says about sex is automatically defined by many people as bigoted and judgmental. Don’t think that if you can just say things the right way, people won’t get upset. They will. Therefore, if you don’t lower your expectations, you will often be discouraged.

[That may be the most realistic piece of advice. I’d also add that framing the audience as “sexual sinners” may aggravate the problem. We are all sinners, and many of us are sexual sinners in any number of ways. The perception that Christian evangelists are obsessed with sexual sins over all others may contribute to the lack of success. — Ed]