The art of persuasion is a powerful tool to bring about positive change, promote social progress, and advance ideas and beliefs. However, today’s digital age has created a new landscape for persuasion that requires careful consideration and ethical reflection.
Worldly persuasion can become a means of influencing public opinions, often without regard for ethical considerations or the well-being of others. This approach is frequently associated with manipulation, coercion, and dishonesty. It can negatively affect individuals, families, society, and the church. The continued rise of social media platforms has become the critical arena for such harmful, factually unchecked, persuasive ideas. But it doesn’t have to be that way.
When persuasion is sacred and ethical, it becomes a powerful tool for positive change. Holy persuasion means convincing others to take a particular action or adopt a specific principle through peaceful, respectful, and truthful means. This approach is rooted in the belief that people can make their own decisions and should be treated with dignity and respect, even when they hold opposing views from you.
Paul gives us this excellent example of holy persuasion in action. When we live at peace with others, we demonstrate the gospel’s power.
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” – Romans 12:18.
In the church, persuasion is best used to spread the message of faith and promote positive values. This approach recognizes that influence is not just about convincing others to see things from our perspective but rather about building relationships, understanding other viewpoints, and seeking common ground.
At its core, spiritual persuasion encourages others to live according to God’s values, beliefs, and purpose. To do this, we must have empathy, compassion, and an understanding of the individual or group we share our faith with.
The life of Mahatma Gandhi illustrates an example of holy persuasion. He used nonviolent influence to lead India to independence from British rule by inspiring countless others to embrace nonviolence for social and political change. Gandhi’s approach was rooted in his deep faith and belief in the power of love. He used persuasion to transform hearts and minds rather than force compliance.
Martin Luther King Jr. also used persuasive language and peaceful protest to challenge racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. His efforts ultimately led to significant changes in the law and social norms. Like Gandhi, King also believed in the power of love and nonviolence to effect change. He inspired millions to join this cause through his persuasive words and actions.
We must also realize that some people may resist change or hold deeply ingrained beliefs that are difficult to overcome. Listening to the other person’s opinion is essential to holy persuasion by seeking to discern points of view and better understand their beliefs. Avoiding the use of aggressive language is always a key component.
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare” – Proverbs 15:1.
As Christians, we must remember that holy persuasion is not about winning an argument or insisting that we are right; it is about using our words and actions to inspire others to be their best selves and to live in alignment with God’s values and purpose.
Demonstrating God’s love in our actions is essential to holy persuasion. It is not just about being nice or doing good acts; it is about living out our faith and showing others the love of Christ in tangible ways. It allows us to coexist more peacefully with God’s created people.