Never assume someone is a Christian just because he says he is (Matt 7:21-23). Many who call Jesus "Lord" will hear the words, "Depart from Me, I new knew you" on the Day of Judgment.

On a summer evening, Kimberly my wife took an elderly lady witnessing at Milham Park. The first couple they spoke with said, “Oh, we’re Christians,” and Kimberly’s partner responded “That’s wonderful!” and walked on. Lots of people say they are Christians just like lots of people say they are good people. Our world is terribly confused on what it means to be a Christian. If someone says, “Oh, I believe in Jesus,” or "I prayed the sinner's prayer," try following up with one of these responses:

1. What do you mean by that?
2. If I was your best friend, how could I tell that you live for Jesus? What fruit in your life would prove that you follow Jesus?
3. Take him through several of the Ten Commandments and then ask, "As a lying, thieving, blaspheming, adulterer at heart, how could God let you into heaven if His standard is perfection?"
4. If I wasn’t a Christian, and I asked you to tell me how I can become a Christian, what would you tell me?
5. Jesus said that you can tell a tree by the fruit it produces (Matt 7:17). What actions, disciplines, or habits in your life demonstrate that you actually follow Christ?
6. The Bible tells us that even the demons believe (Jam 2:19). So what’s the difference between your belief in Jesus and a demon’s?
7. If the person waxes eloquent on his ministry involvement in church as the proof, explain how billions will stand before Jesus on Judgment Day saying, “Lord, Lord, did we not prophecy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?” (Matt 25:22) and Jesus will respond, “I never knew you; depart from me, you who practice lawlessness” (Matt 25:23). Then ask, “How do you know for sure that you won’t be one of those on Judgment Day?”

If he objects to your questions, bring up one of the following passages:

• James 2:14-26 tells us that our faith is dead if there are no works to demonstrate that faith.
• Jesus said, "If anyone wishes to come after Me, he must deny himself, and take up his cross and follow Me" (Matthew 16:24).
• Jesus said, "My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples" (John 15:8).
• John the Apostle wrote, "The one who says, 'I have come to know Him,' and does not keep His commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him" (1 John 2:4).

If the person gives all credit for his salvation to Christ then you now have an opportunity for edification! Ask him, "Do you ever tell people about Christ?

Yes (or) No.

Will you promise me one thing?

Sure.

Will you pass this gospel pamphlet on to your closest unsaved friend and ask him to tell you what he thinks?