1 Corinthians 8:2 English Standard Version

If anyone imagines that he knows something, he does not yet know as he ought to know.

1 Corinthians 8:2 King James Version

And if any man think that he knoweth any thing, he knoweth nothing yet as he ought to know.

1 Corinthians 8:2 Living Bible

If anyone thinks he knows all the answers, he is just showing his ignorance.

In your opinion, which version satisfies your understanding?

Here are the three basic rules of opinions: imagination, rational thought, ego. Proof is not required to have an opinion. Facts can be merely data points collected and analyzed to satisfy a specific opinion that has already been formed.

If we are going to sit down and share the gospel with the lost we need to understand one basic rule. Don’t let our ego get in the way.

Listen to their opinion and ask the most basic questions, like; “How did you come to that conclusion?”

Do not question their sincerity which places them on the defensive. Ask them to self-reflect.

I asked a Muslim friend why he became a Muslim. His answer was honest and heartfelt. “I love and respect my father.” He left me no room to explore his opinion because that would have only attacked his father which would alienate him and close off access.

This is a common approach in religious beliefs. They are based on relationships.

If we are to have a close personal relationship with God then His opinion is the only one that matters.

Here is my opinion. God will make Himself known to you in a way that you cannot deny Him.

That is an opinion because it satisfies me and I don’t get to choose what satisfies anyone else.

To think otherwise is just ego.