The Art of Persuasion

“My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!” Proverbs 1:10 NLT

Simply put, the art of persuasion is to convince someone or a group of people to change their thinking. There have been books published, classes taught, and videos produced explaining the techniques available to enhance your ability to master the art of persuasion. Persuading others can have both positive and negative effects. People can be persuaded to do good or bad, even Christians.  

Some of our best friends practice the art of persuasion. They may have the best of intentions in what they are trying to convince us to do or be part of, but it may not be the best thing, or worse contrary to Scripture. As Jesus says we are to ‘be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.’ (Mt.10:16) There has been a blending of the modern-day culture with the church and Christianity in general for the last few decades. Activities we would have never considered engaging in some time ago, we now accept and participate with a little persuasion.

Solomon says in the book of Proverbs, “My child, if sinners entice you, turn your back on them!” (Pr.1:10 nlt) It may be difficult referring to our friends as sinners, but the Bible says all are sinners, and that includes you and me. (Ro.3:23) Christians need to pray for discernment when tempted to participation in something the Lord would disapprove of. An old anti-drug slogan simply said, ‘just say no.’ An anti-enticement slogan could be ‘it’s OK to turn your back on them.’

There are many resources to teach us the art of persuasion including the Word of God. The Holy Spirit guiding us through the Bible will teach us the art of knowing right from wrong, convicting us of our sin and our need of a savior showing us the way of salvation. Then we too can use the art of persuasion on our friends.