Monday, January 01, 2007

Ministering to Buddhists

At NAMB's World Religions Apologetics' site, they say this about witnessing to Buddhists:
1. Remember that Buddhists have several special interests:
  • attempting to live according to the principles of the Eightfold Path
  • escape from the suffering of endless life
  • finding peace through meditation (common in American Buddhism)
2. Avoid terms such as "new birth," "rebirth," "regeneration," or "born again." Use alternatives such as "endless freedom from suffering, guilt, and sin," "new power for living a holy life," "promise of eternal good life without suffering," or "gift of unlimited merit."

3. Emphasize the uniqueness of Christ.

4. Focus on the gospel message and do not get distracted by details of Buddhist doctrine.

5. Understand Buddhist beliefs enough to discern weaknesses that can be used to make the gospel appealing (see "Bridges for Evangelizing Buddhists" and "Jesus and the Eightfold Path").

6. While using bridge concepts, be careful not to reduce Christian truth to a form of Buddhism. Buddhism has been good at accommodating other religions. Do not say "Buddhism is good, but Christianity is easier."

7. Share your own testimony, especially your freedom from guilt, assurance of heaven (no more pain), and personal relationship with Christ.

8. Prepare with prayer. Do not witness in your own strength.

OMF International also has some videos on Tibetan Buddhism and One Billion Wait (includes Buddhism Prayer Focus).

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