Learn to Reach Your World - Episode 3
This podcast episode, titled "Learning to Reach Your World," is hosted by Josh Combs and focuses on the importance of godly character in sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with others. Josh is joined by guest Dave Hudgens, who shares insights from both his ministry experience and time working with the Salvation Army. The episode weaves together theological perspectives, practical advice, and personal stories that emphasize the critical link between a Christian's life, Godly behavior, and the effectiveness of sharing the good news.
Introduction to Sharing the Gospel:
Josh begins by defining the gospel in simple terms: the good news that Jesus Christ came to pay for humanity’s sins through His death, burial, and resurrection. He highlights the biblical response to the gospel, referencing Romans 10:9-11 (ESV): “If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”
The podcast is designed to encourage believers to share the gospel boldly and effectively while living lives that reflect their faith.
Key Personal Story - Dave’s Time with the Salvation Army:
Dave shares his experience working for the Salvation Army in both ministry and professional development (fundraising). He discusses how the organization is often known for its charitable works but emphasizes the Salvation Army’s mission: “To preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.”
Dave recounts meetings with donors, highlighting the tension between fundraising and staying uncompromised in proclaiming the gospel. His father, who also worked in the organization, taught him a key principle: “The moment you think you can’t—or shouldn’t—mention Jesus, get out.”
A poignant story is shared about Dave’s father negotiating a lease for a Salvation Army thrift store. During the negotiation, his father shared the gospel with the landlord, resulting in a powerful moment of prayer and ultimately a favorable outcome for the ministry. This story underscores the importance of consistent godly behavior, as Dave’s father’s character allowed him to reflect Christ effectively to everyone he encountered.
Tension Between Mission and Practical Challenges:
The podcast explores the temptation to compromise integrity or water down the gospel message for practical gains, such as financial donations. Dave describes how it’s easy to rationalize poor behavior or compromises by telling oneself it's “for the greater good.”
Key Lesson: Christians should guard against rationalizing moral failings in the name of furthering God's mission. As Josh says, “We are ambassadors for Christ first, not just workers or fundraisers doing the things of God.”
Godly Character and Its Role in the Gospel:
Josh and Dave reflect on Philippians 1:27 (ESV), which says, “Only let your manner of life be worthy of the gospel of Christ.” They emphasize that a Christian’s life must match the message of the gospel they proclaim.
The hosts discuss how failing to live in alignment with Christ’s teachings—whether by hypocrisy, concealment (hiding one’s faith), or lacking kingdom ethics—undermines the effectiveness of a believer’s witness to others.
Dave references Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, which outlines kingdom ethics such as mercy, peacemaking, and love for enemies, as the ultimate example of godly character. Christians are called to embody these values authentically.
Challenges Facing the Church Today:
The conversation shifts to discussing the broader American church. Josh raises the hypothetical question of what Paul might write to churches in America, given the current state of Christian culture. Both hosts agree that American Christians often send confusing messages about Christ’s values, making it difficult for non-believers to see a clear distinction between Christians and the world.
They critique how modern believers sometimes celebrate things that are contrary to God’s character or blur moral lines through compromise or disobedience.
Practical Takeaways:
Be Consistent: Christians must exhibit Christ-like character in public and private. A life lived with integrity will support their gospel proclamation.
Avoid Concealment: Don’t hide your faith or soften the message of Christ for fear of offending others. Speak the truth in love.
Kingdom Ethics: Live according to Christ's teachings from the Sermon on the Mount—be a light in a dark world.
Stay Rooted in Christ: Allow God to guide and transform your character rather than working in your own strength.
Conduct Matters: As Josh summarizes, “If it’s important to Christ, it should be important to us. Let Christ’s character be our character.”
Memorable Quotes:
"You can get so wrapped up in doing the things of God that you forget the God of the things you're doing."
On godly character: “If your life doesn’t match your message, it creates a struggle for others to believe in the gospel.”
“The church has done incredible good and incredible harm in 2000 years, but what has remained is Jesus.”
Listener Call to Action:
The podcast closes with a challenge: Live a life of Christ-like character so that when you share the gospel, it aligns with how you live. The hosts encourage listeners to share the gospel boldly and effectively, starting today.