Meeting people “where they are” is a phrase that sounds noble enough for Christians who are trying to bring non-believers into a relationship with Christ.

But a few days ago a Facebook friend suggested that Jesus would rather that Christians commune with non-believers over a few beers while talking about matters of faith instead of taking part in communion on Sundays during the Lord’s Supper.

Seriously?! It is obviously important to take our faith outside the walls of the church building and to meet people “where they are” spiritually.

It is important to go and find the unsaved, and teach them.

But I could not disagree more with the manner of evangelism my friend suggested.  If we were to take that logic to its ultimate end, Christians would find themselves in all kinds of situations that could be more of a hindrance than a help.

Many Christians have had good intentions in helping people “where they are” but have found themselves way over the line, engaged in a sinful lifestyle.

Yes, moderation is a key to many things. The Bible does not say that drinking alcohol is a sin.

But the clear majority of scripture has negative things to say about the effects of alcohol. John the Baptist (Luke 1:15) did not drink alcohol because he was a Nazarite, meaning holy or set apart for service to God.

That also happens to be part of the definition of what it means to be a Christian (1 Peter 2:9). John was very successful at teaching non-believers and baptizing them.

Is God’s word less effective today? Does God need us to drink a few beers to convert people?

Anyone who reads 2 Corinthians 6:14-7:1 cannot possibly think it’s okay to make it a habit to go places and do things that can lead even the strongest of Christians astray.

Putting the issue of alcohol consumption aside, if we do not properly remember the death of Jesus Christ, we really have no right and no credibility when it comes to sharing our faith.

So to think that God wants us to skip the Lord’s Supper so we can use more of our time to share our faith with unbelievers (beer or no beer) is about as ridiculous as passing by every gas pump so we can get to where we are going faster.

We all need that time of communion.

The early Christians met on the first day of the week to participate in the Lord’s Supper, remembering the Lord’s death.

They also took up a collection for the work of the church (Acts 20:7 & 1 Corinthians 16:1-2). The first day of the week happens every week.

The Bible gives Christians leeway in our methods of soul winning, but God be with you as you choose ways that result in spiritual successes, not disasters resulting from discounting the written word. Have a great week!

Reach Barrett Vanlandingham at the Fort Gibson Church of Christ at (918) 478-2222 or barrett@ftgcc.org.