In the past, I would ask folks “Are you a believer?”. I no longer ask that question but instead ask it this way: “Have you known the Lord before?”

To determine whether the person is making a first-time decision or a recommitment, ask, “Have you known the Lord before?” Using the phrase “knowing the Lord” is recognizable to a Christian but someone who has never followed Christ will hesitate to say so. Do not ask, “Have you been a Christian before?” or “Are you a believer?” If a person was raised in a liturgical church or is a nominal Christian (existing in name only), they will answer yes.

Just to say “believe in Jesus” can produce a false assurance of salvation because even the devil “believes in Jesus.” To believe in Jesus is to turn from a life of sin, receive Him as Savior, and follow Him as Lord by obeying His word. When this happens, a person’s desires change as they begin to follow His teachings found in the Bible. It is impossible to go to heaven without believing that there is a God (Hebrews 11:6). But a mere mental agreement to the fact that God exists is not enough to save a person’s soul. The book of James says: “You believe that there is one God. You do well. Even the demons believe—and tremble!” (2:19). Intellectual assent to a creed is not saving faith.

The difference is whether someone knows about God or truly knows Him as Savior, Lord, and Friend.

The issue is not merely what someone believes, but in whom he or she believes. As the apostle Paul stated, “I know whom I have believed” (2 Timothy 1:12).

The focus of faith is knowing in whom we believe, not merely what we believe. Faith is more than understanding a particular promise – faith is knowing Jesus, the Author and the Finisher of our faith (Heb. 12:2); focusing on the Person behind the promise more than the premise itself. This text notes a faith that centers on whom we believe. Vital faith rests in Him (2 Tim 4:9-10), abides in Him (John 15:4, 7), and cannot be separated from Him by any circumstances or power (Rom 8:38, 39). Faith is the outflow of a continual walk with Jesus, knowing Him – in whom we believe.

Evangelism is not merely verbal proclamation or persuasion. It is introducing people to the risen Christ, a living Lord. If, in whatever way we can, we simply get people in contact with Jesus, they will never be the same.

Evangelism is, in word and deed, bringing people to Jesus. He will save them.