My coming to Christ actually began at a UU Fellowship. At our various small group gatherings I would often share that I really liked the "Jesus as Savior" story, though I wasn't sure I bought it entirely. Over time, a growing number of people apparently made it their mission to break me of that. Looking back, I'm pretty sure a group of them decided to seek me out socially so that they could spend more time "working on me". Alas, I was increasingly treated as if I just refused to be enlightened. At the same time, I couldn't help noticing that almost ANY other viewpoint seemed perfectly acceptable. Finally, I had to wonder "Why anything BUT Christianity?". This got me looking into things more deeply until, one day, I just couldn't call myself UU anymore.
@@kladies3021 I could seriously write a book, but the short version is that, while attending the UU, I was in a few different abusive homosexual relationships. I was always drunk and frequently in trouble with the law (for petty things). But, over the next 5 years, all that would change. I ended up moving away. I got sober and started my own business. I escaped witchcraft and vowed celibacy rather than continuing in a homosexual lifestyle. Eventually, I met the man who would become my husband. We've been happily married now for 10 years, and recently moved to Wisconsin to establish a more down-to-earth lifestyle. We immediately found a small Biblically sound church that we love. I now drive a school bus and am making it my personal mission to be a representative of Christ to the children in my care. It's been an amazing journey.
God is so good!! I love how He uses our "rebellion" sometimes to highlight exactly who He is! My story is similar but also different, I never got into UU but found a very similar mindset of "anything goes EXCEPT CHRISTIANITY" in New Age circles. I noticed the ONLY thing everyone in the room was always sure about and had in common was flat out rejection of the Bible/Chrstianity, and Jesus as exclusive door to heaven. Literally everything else was totally cool. Every other perspective welcomed and embraced. I just had this thought like, "I'm not 100% sure I am ready to completely reject that.. you all seem so sure... I need to dig deeper before I'm fully on board with this whole rejecting of Jesus as God thing" And God did the rest.. He revealed Himself in a big way after that. All the new age experiences etc pale in comparison. He's good and so faithful!!
I was raised in the Unitarian "faith" in Chicago, and I believed that God (in a very indefinite way) existed, but was generally critical of what I saw of how Christianity was practiced (in the US at least). In university I adopted a Buddhist ideology and rejected what some of my Christian classmates tried to share with me. I moved to L.A. and a young man witnessed to me on the street. I had to admit that I really did not know much about Jesus, so I decided to listen and eventually made the decision to accept Christ, after pondering Jesus' profound and absolute statement, "I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father, but by Me." -- and later was able to lead my Unitarian parents to accept Christ.
Praise God! So incredible! It’s amazing how God doesn’t use us to disciple in only one direction, but in every direction. Authority over a person doesn’t make a disciple, truth and Biblical love do. I’m so glad He used you to reach your parents ❤
I agree. I appreciate the commentary. I think it's helpful, and helpful to Melissa because then she won't have people making comments she already thought of.
Thank you for showing that witnessing is not perfect, we rely on the Holy Spirit. I don’t have to witness perfectly; I need to be perfect in my willingness to witness, and to illuminate the word of God as inerrant. I don’t argue or fight; I simply share the word of God, truthfully and with respect.
I just don't know how to go about witnessing. I've tried a little, but not enough! I got the book Tactics but just don't know how to begin as I'm not outgoing!
@@KM-zn3lx U must be Equipped first. Read and Study the Scriptures. Pray for the Holy Spirit to lead you. Every time u get stumped, use that to research the answer for the next encounter. Good idea to go out with a Mature disciple.
Agreed! Witnessing and also helping us, or me at least, how to witness. Love it! ❤ learned a lot and pray more have the courage and boldness to do this for Jesus!
One thing I learned about talking to people in a significantly different position: You’re not going to convince them or change their mind in one conversation. I call it the Johnny Appleseed method. Christians usually say “plant seeds” Sometimes you have to plant so that others may reap. Sometimes you reap where others have sown.
@@Joshua-dc1bswhat a paranoid, fear based response. This is what keeps so many Christian’s in the Phariseeans zone… I promise you, being stuck in fear, instead of living in love (god is love, after all)…will cause more damage than you can possibly imagine. The thinking behind a comment like yours is what drives divisiveness, and us vs them mentality. Is your god not big enough? Is your god not wise enough? That you can talk to all of the divine’s creation and be ok. What kind of faith does a person have, if they are afraid of being in contact with others of other beliefs?
Ye shall reap what you sow . . . *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.” *Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” *Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive." *Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy." *Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_ *Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country. *1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you" *1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
I actually love the way you do this, Melissa. I think asking questions using a style that respectfully allows the person to express their views is what Jesus did. "Who do you say I am?"
UU and Unity are similar. I attended a Unity church for about two years.. when I heard the pastor say he wanted to rewrite the Bible. It became intolerable for me. I am now Christian and have been baptized.
Hallelujah! . . . *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.” *Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” *Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive." *Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy." *Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_ *Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country. *1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you" *1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
@@nomdeguerre8464smh. Stop yourself nomdeguree. NO ONE said, nor insinuated that there is anything wrong with being direct. So please...do not put words in ppls mouths. That's one of the reasons the rest of us appreciate Melissa so much: Bc she is VERY direct...infact, as direct as direct can get, as well as clear &uncompromising. As far as your comment; "strawman much?". That sarcastic snark is highly uncalled-for & does not belong in this comment section. This is "Melissa's house". Youd ought to behave yourself & demonstrate the respect & decorum she deserves by treating her company/her viewers with the same respect & decorum you would if we were all sitting with the Dougherty's at their dinner table having a convo. How's THAT for "direct"?
I agree with the questions you asked and even the ones you wanted to ask. I am all about being gracious and keeping the conversation open instead of hitting them directly with the “You’re wrong and headed to Hell!” The prayer is always that you have another opportunity to speak with someone again and of course that the Holy Spirit opens their eyes to see the Truth.
That's very good because I can assure you that when Christians come at people like that and are unable to have a respectful conversation....it comes off very belittling and judgemental and I think it offends far more people than anything else which would be the opposite of bringing people to know Yeshua....and for me personally whenever I come across people who behave like that it looks like severe brainwashing from my perspective and thus is extremely difficult to take seriously. I think this is even more true for people that have no background w spiritual teachings and/ or religion.
@@squirrelgirl1853 How do you bring people to know Yeshua? I think possibly you can bring people to know about Yeshua, but I think Yeshua is the only one who can bring a person to know Him...have intimate relationship with Him.
Nicely done and very graceful with your presence. As a former new-ager, I really enjoy these even if they make me cringe for what I once wholeheartedly believed. I was deceived as much as anyone, but after reading sacred scripture it became overwhelmingly apparent that Jesus is the one who saves souls.
Melissa, make sure to tell folks each time you talk with them to WATCH THE VIDEO THEY'LL BE IN! That way, they can hear all the questions you wish you'd asked at the time but couldn't, or the ones that you think of later. Well done, sister. I've street evangelized, and it's not easy, despite what some folks might be thinking from the comfort of their couches. 😂
Thanks Melissa, I heard a lot of Greg Koukl phrases during your commentary 👍🏽🙏 One thing that stood out to me with these two interviewees is that they were utterly biblically illiterate (I'm not mocking or condemning, just stating facts). While their beliefs sounded nice, they proved hollow, which is pitiable for any belief anyone might hold. May God raise up people like me, you, Greg Koukl, etc to gently challenge these hollow beliefs and teach what's in the Bible. Consider the irony-- the Bible is currently more accessible AND readable to all Americans than at any other time in human history, yet Americans are more biblically illiterate than ever. 😢
First you're not annoying nor is the presentation of your videos. I love the way you are tackling this. Humility and being humble is the way. I'm sure you'll be ready if the conversation turns aggressive. Making them think and allowing us to see you in action is a blessing, thank you. Keep up the great work!
I think people get more out of being heard and seeing patience and love from a Christian is valuable in itself! You did a great job letting them finish their thought and not correcting them. Maybe offer if they want to you to pray with them about anything at the end. Usually people are welcome to this :) love your videos
@@kelseykjarsgaard5774 I didn't know people in China, Iran, North Korea, Russia have YT. *1 Timothy 2:1-3* “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people - for *KINGS* and all those in *authority* - that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.” *Romans 13:1* "Let everyone be SUBJECT to the *governing* authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been *established* by God." *Deuteronomy 17:14-15* "When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you and have taken possession of it and settled in it, and you say, 'Let us set a *KING* over us like all the nations around us,' be sure to appoint over you a *KING* the Lord your God chooses." *Matthew 22:20-22* "And he asked them, 'Whose image is this? And whose inscription?' 'Caesar’s,' they replied. Then he said to them, 'So _give_ back to CAESAR what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.'”
Melissa I really like the narration and info in between the street interview. It's really helpful. Plus it allows you to help educate us as viewers and share things you weren't able to say in the interview.
These videos are great! I love seeing how you engage others in a conversation about Jesus and Christianity. Thank you for sharing them with us. I look forward to more of this type of video.
I was a Unitarian Universalist for several years. For me, it was kind of holding space while a certain type of evangelicalism was deconstructed (although no one used that term then), and a deeper, more rounded, grounded and balanced, but theologically orthodox, faith was reconstructed. Without UUs, I might just have sunk away into atheism, and deconstruction would have resulted in apostasy rather than returning, in the end, to a stronger Christian faith.
I'm glad you were able to use UU as a stepping stone to the truth. But here in New England, UU Churches are nothing more than leftist breeding grounds with BLM banners across the front, where anything truly Biblical and orthodox is mocked and shamed and anything occult, feminist, or LGBT is glorified. I get a creepy feeling of disgust every time I have to drive by one... ick!
Good boy . . . *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.” *Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” *Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive." *Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy." *Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_ *Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country. *1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you" *1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
Love these videos! I am so happy that people have an opportunity to be challenged in a loving way. Hopefully they really do think more deeply about these things afterward 🥰
My husband's grandmother is a UU, and I've struggled with figuring out how to talk to her about our different beliefs. She's always giving us and our children books on spiritualism, and for my husband, who is a newer Christian, and our daughter, who is also a newer Christian, it's very confusing. I would love to see more of these kinds of videos, as well as more videos on understanding what UU beliefs actually are, and some good ways to engage with them about the truth of the gospel.
Have you suggested that your husband and daughter not read the UU materials ?They are not Biblically based and there is nothing to be gained by reading the material. It is like reading material on the Islamic and trying to understand it in light of Christian beliefs.
@sharondoan1447 Trust me, I wisked those books away as soon as they got here. I've been torn about whether or not to donate this last batch. The last few times, I've actually thrown them away. On the one hand, I don't want someone else to read them and end up confused, but on the other hand, is it ethical for me to throw them out? I'll probably throw then away, but I'm interested in what y'all think.
Perhaps simply asking them how Jesus is the Messiah if he was virgin born "Outside the Male Line of the Kings". This usually fixes a lot of doctrinal issues. Though only if that's your will. ☺
@@cherietillapaughhott1012 Thinking about how I might handle those materials if my relative was sending them to me, I concluded that I would burn them or perhaps shred them. My beliefs are rooted in Jesus as the Savior . Because of that it would be a serious breech of my faith to pass along literature that was not true to my faith. Why? It seems to me that it is outside my duty to spread teachings that I find untrue. I don’t think I owe it to others to provide them with alternative approaches to any religion. There seems to be tons of opportunities for that already.
I liked how you brought us up to speed by explaining as the conversation progressed. Wonderful format, keep it this way please. Very good interview and the rest will be up to the Holy Spirit. In fact it was God who orchestrated this meeting.
Wow! You are an inspiration. You have much more patience than I have, and we can all learn from your method and courage to be open minded while staying steadfast in your faith! Good work!
Melissa, thank you so much for your honesty. None of us are perfect. I do think the only thing that could have made this conversation better is just sharing the gospel. Share the truth with them because that's what they need! Notice I'm not saying what I would have done -- I wouldn't even have the courage to approach strangers with a microphone! Overall, great video. I appreciate your commentary interspersed with the conversation. Thanks for your faithfulness to the Truth and sharing with us!
As a U.U member that is 100% true. Obviously I can't speak for all U.U members. But I view religion as a fun thought experiment knowing it is 100% unknowable. The U.U church I use as a community source and a place for volunteer opportunities to help the less fortunate.
Interesting interview. I think I have run across unitary universalists before. I’ve noticed they often are able to talk fluently about subjects a mile wide but only go an inch deep which gives the perception of intelligence but It’s been my experience that when asking deep analytical or philosophical questions they deflect and stay in the shallows . I don’t think you would have got much further than you did going through direct route, they likely would have either deflected or cut your conversation short. I believe weather you planted a seed or watered, God gives the increase. Awesome job.
You are so approachable in talking with strangers. Do you think having a mic makes people more willing to engage? People seem to want their opinions known. But are they interested in receiving information or challenges to their thinking. Seems they "think" rather than "believe". I so respect and appreciate you! Keep up the good work!
This is so vulnerable and valuable of you share with people (us, your viewers). Thank you!! It’s so encouraging to see someone just engaging in thought-provoking, gospel-centric conversations for Jesus’ sake, while doing it imperfectly and not only showing your “best moments” or whatever. This is how seeds are planted! And i think you are doing it faithfully. Thank you for sharing :)
Just found your channel as I was perusing basketball clips…oddly there you were! Thank you for your testimony and sharing it with us. Very encouraging. God bless you
I recently moved in with my daughter and her family to rest and take a break for a while and I have great news. She approached me yesterday and said, “I don’t think I would feel right if I was to go to that Univeralist Unitarian church, what about that church of Christ that’s on the next block over?” Thank God!!! She’s still somewhat new though/new age but had been saved and baptized when she was young but still 🙏🏽
We're to plant and water, but God gives the increase. Wonderful thing you're doing here- making people think about their positions on this! All tastefully done, as well. Calling them out on camera in a way that makes them feel attacked, or "less than" wouldn't be effective. You were very calm, and just had conversations that we all should be having! Praying for you, and praying for these ladies- that the seeds you planted will take root! 💛
GOD BLESS you melissa for going out there, and having them hopefully something to think about, I asked OUR HEAVENLY FATHER ABBA to soften their hearts and turn to HIM. So thanks again MY SISTER IN CHRIST🔥🩷🙌🏼
Thanks for this video, Melissa. I love your approach. Hopefully, I’ll learn more of “how to put a stone in someone’s shoe” and try to understand where they’re coming from, rather than forcing my beliefs. You’re right, of course, it’s the job of the Holy Spirit to convict and convince.
It's great that you are self-aware and realize that you must make a connection in order to have any meaningful dialog and avoid an assertive posture that causes others to put up defensive barriers. Your pause to insert analysis adds another dimension that I find very thought-provoking. Good Job!
I think you did a good job in the conversation. I wouldn't be too concerned about what you could have/should have said. I think if you just keep listening to what they are saying and keep giving them things to think about instead of trying to come up with the right thing to say, you'll do well. Not many people like to be corrected in a conversation with someone they just met. The goal of our instruction is love, right? "...from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from a sincere faith." 1 Tim 1:5. Also, Colossians 4:6 "Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person." Seems like that is what you were doing!
AMEN! *Romans 1:1* "Paul, a _bondservant_ of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart" *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.” *Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.” *Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive." *Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy." *Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_ *Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country. *1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you" *1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
Thank you for showing us this video. I have several acquaintances that our universalists. And I never really understood what their Church stood for . I never knew how to talk with them. I know it holds a wide variety of beliefs. And these people that I know are gay. I love it when you stop the video and talk about what you want to say it really helps understand where you're coming from. Or else we forget what the people have said I like the commentaries keep doing it this way it's wonderful. 😊😊
I absolutely LOVE the way you talk to people and share the gospel by asking them questions and challenging them to really think. You have a gift, dear sister. I hope you know that. ❤
I really enjoy these videos where you go out and talk to people. You definitely seem to be gifted in this area. Looking forward to seeing more of these.
I find it brave and great that you are doing this. It's definitely a learning opportunity for us watching and your humility with presenting this is a great way for you to grow while doing this. I would say in some ways it prompts me to really think what I believe about the gospel. Do I really understand them and my stance with being a Christian. It's a healthy reminder to examine one's self. Thank you.
You nailed it at the end. We cannot convert people as that is the Holy Spirit's role. Wonderful job. Thank you. What I have found, as I have become more open and firm in my beliefs as a Christian, is a high level of ignorance about the Bible and Jesus. It is frightening.
how could you be surprised about the confusion of the bible and its validilty ...Its a million different variations of its belief...its like finding a needle in a hay stack
@@MrBigcnasty I think what you are trying to say about the million variations and finding a needle in a haystack is about the translation, but I don't know. That said I do want to clarify your other point. I did not say confusion, I said ignorance, and that is from talking with people who are lifelong churchgoers and VERY religious that have never read the actual Bible. Not the KJV, NIV, NET, ENT, or any other translation. Not once. To me that is ignorance, and if I understood your statement on variation, the Bible translations all say the same thing with different words. Even though the translation of the KJV is not the most direct it offers the ability to recall the scripture similar to singing a song as it is in a lyrical form. Whereas, the NET can overwhelm folks with the pure amount of data it offers. I tell people to "Just pick it up and start reading" and don't sweat the small stuff. I hope I clarified my thoughts and understood yours accurately.
That “time” issue is always a bummer for me too, but then I have to remember how the scriptures remind us that one plants, one waters, and God brings the increase. So, hopefully down the road, there will be another planter, maybe another, and eventually a water-er. And finally, God will grant them that ah-ha moment. Nice work. I enjoy your videos.
New Mexico... nice. I just got a call from a person in NM yesterday about one of my daily devotions I write for a publication. As believers, we have to get moving with the Gospel. You're on target, Melissa.
Praise God! I see him working through you in your grace, humility and kindness. You do a fantastic job to research, understand and converse with people of different beliefs. When the women spoke about their agnostic beliefs and about ‘goodness’, I think that would have been a great time to jump in to how do we know what is good? Who has the moral authority? To really dig into that and unveil that there is a God. It made me think of Tim Keller’s series ‘Questioning Christianity’ and his book ‘The Reason for God’. I think a lot of people these days love to ask big questions, think, and reason their way to the truth and praise God that in doing that with guidance from the Lord they will find Him 🙏🏽🥳🥰
I am thankful to see in practice exactly what you mentioned at the end: We are /not/ the Holy Spirit, and laying out all of Theology and Apologetics wouldn’t save someone anyway. It’s sad that we don’t get reminded and see in practice more, how to do what you are gifted in, share your faith, and be listening to where the Holy Spirit leads; He knows just what is needed for a person at any given moment in their lives. ❤️
You are doing AWESOME, Melissa! The format is fantastic, and how you interact with people is wonderful. The Holy Spirit will give you the words. Praying for your ministry, and also for those you are interacting with! God bless you and your family! 😃🙏🏻❤️
I think what you were doing, and how you did it, was great!...Your approach of "attract more bees with honey rather than vinegar" is spot on. Ray Comfort from Living Waters is a master with asking the questions like you asked and then injecting the reality and truth of Jesus and the gospel into the conversation. Keep doing what you're doing!
You did great. You will get better every time you do it. Definitely pray for them! I had a UU friend whom I didn’t know was, and it caught me by surprise.
Wow. You've got all kinds of folks in Albu-quirky. Those kinds of conversations are so encouraging. It is good to create positive rapport with unbelievers and give them something to think about. Nicely done.
So amazing you can do this and feel excited about it! I'm impressed by your ability and ease with talking with people :) I wish they could have stayed longer to talk more, but you were faithful to give them things to think about! Be a stone in their shoe :D
Kudos to you sis for doing this! If I could give one piece of advice, when telling people to read the gospels, unbelievers would get the most out of the gospel of John. Johns gospel is directed at unbelievers, it states the importance of belief in Jesus. Shows God's character beautifully. All around the best gospel for unbelievers to read. May God bless you as you continue to have modest and genuine conversations with people. Grace and Peace be with you! ❤️
You're excellent at these interviews Melissa! 😊 Love that you can dive right in and get folks to really consider their own position in contrast with the Gospel and real Christianity.
Great job Melissa! Our job isn't to save people but to move them one inch closer to Christ, the Holy Spirit will do what he purposes. Some great questions to ask that help move toward the gospel are: Do you know what the gospel is? Can you articulate the gospel? Then offer a biblical description of the gospel!
Melissa, you have an extraordinary amount of self-control. Kudos to you. With just a limited amount of time to talk to someone, I would like to see what the outcome would be if you opened with and concentrated on the rapture of the church. It might give them a more ‘pressing’ need to look into Christianity.
This was great! I had assumed that they believed in God of the Bible. I also thought they believed in Universalism with regards to salvation in Christ. This was a learning experience for me. Thank you!!✝️🙏🏻📖❤️
Quick Feedback: Being very picky about YT channel set designs, your minimalist, artistic, earthtone-ish, sometimes darker, light-accented backdrop is very cool. Nice job to whoever did that. You in the middle, surrounded by such creativity, makes for a complete balance of Beauty and Art!
There are few things more convincing about the gospel than knowing these people traveled around in often unfavorable locations to spread the gospel while others were trying to have them killed, all based on their personal recollections of their time with Jesus. People don’t do that kind of thing without having been truly convinced themselves. They were convicted with his life and his teachings, so much so that most gave their lives as well. As far as what you are doing, even if they are lost, others who watch these videos with the explanations you give very may well be found.
I think a lot of people need more patience in these talks, people build their ideas over years and it will probably take years to change them too though there are exceptions we should always have patience, kindness, and persistence.
As a secular person, i enjoyed this format. I think your challenge would be finding people who want to be engaged and are prepared to see all arguments through to their conclusions. Since I'm not convinced these two did want that full conversation, your commentary provided extra insight.
I LUV THIS VIDEO AND LIVE FOR CONTENT LIKE THIS . AMAZING WORK CONTINUE WITH THIS STYLE OF INFORMATION AND MORE INFO GATHERING WITH CHALLENGES LIKE THIS . 10\10 LOVE AND WOULD WATCH THIS RATHER THAN A GOOD MOVIE . AWESOME WORK MELISSA !!!!
I love what you are doing! I am a coward when it comes to talking to others about Jesus. This really helps me learn more how to do this and hopefully will help me gain confidence as I do.
My coming to Christ actually began at a UU Fellowship. At our various small group gatherings I would often share that I really liked the "Jesus as Savior" story, though I wasn't sure I bought it entirely. Over time, a growing number of people apparently made it their mission to break me of that. Looking back, I'm pretty sure a group of them decided to seek me out socially so that they could spend more time "working on me". Alas, I was increasingly treated as if I just refused to be enlightened. At the same time, I couldn't help noticing that almost ANY other viewpoint seemed perfectly acceptable. Finally, I had to wonder "Why anything BUT Christianity?". This got me looking into things more deeply until, one day, I just couldn't call myself UU anymore.
❤ your conversion story 😊
@@knightofchrist3594 This was just the beginning. There's so much more to the story. But isn't it wonderful what God can do?
@@angietorok8389Well now you know we want to hear more!!😂 Your story sounds like God drawing you to himself, just as the bible testifies!❤
@@kladies3021 I could seriously write a book, but the short version is that, while attending the UU, I was in a few different abusive homosexual relationships. I was always drunk and frequently in trouble with the law (for petty things). But, over the next 5 years, all that would change. I ended up moving away. I got sober and started my own business. I escaped witchcraft and vowed celibacy rather than continuing in a homosexual lifestyle. Eventually, I met the man who would become my husband. We've been happily married now for 10 years, and recently moved to Wisconsin to establish a more down-to-earth lifestyle. We immediately found a small Biblically sound church that we love. I now drive a school bus and am making it my personal mission to be a representative of Christ to the children in my care. It's been an amazing journey.
God is so good!! I love how He uses our "rebellion" sometimes to highlight exactly who He is! My story is similar but also different, I never got into UU but found a very similar mindset of "anything goes EXCEPT CHRISTIANITY" in New Age circles. I noticed the ONLY thing everyone in the room was always sure about and had in common was flat out rejection of the Bible/Chrstianity, and Jesus as exclusive door to heaven.
Literally everything else was totally cool. Every other perspective welcomed and embraced.
I just had this thought like, "I'm not 100% sure I am ready to completely reject that.. you all seem so sure... I need to dig deeper before I'm fully on board with this whole rejecting of Jesus as God thing"
And God did the rest.. He revealed Himself in a big way after that. All the new age experiences etc pale in comparison. He's good and so faithful!!
“I am not the Holy Spirit. It’s not my job to convict or save them. I’m going out and doing what I feel like I’m gifted in”
That really spoke to me 🤯💯
Came here to say this
I was raised in the Unitarian "faith" in Chicago, and I believed that God (in a very indefinite way) existed, but was generally critical of what I saw of how Christianity was practiced (in the US at least). In university I adopted a Buddhist ideology and rejected what some of my Christian classmates tried to share with me. I moved to L.A. and a young man witnessed to me on the street. I had to admit that I really did not know much about Jesus, so I decided to listen and eventually made the decision to accept Christ, after pondering Jesus' profound and absolute statement, "I am the way, the truth and the life, no one comes to the Father, but by Me." -- and later was able to lead my Unitarian parents to accept Christ.
wonderful!! Praise God!
Praise God!
Hallelujah!
Praise God! Thank you for sharing!
Praise God! So incredible! It’s amazing how God doesn’t use us to disciple in only one direction, but in every direction. Authority over a person doesn’t make a disciple, truth and Biblical love do. I’m so glad He used you to reach your parents ❤
I appreciate that you address each issue as it is presented. Thank you! I don't find it annoying at all.
Same!
Completely agree! Loved the commentary!!!
Same!
I agree! I love how organized it all is.
I agree. I appreciate the commentary. I think it's helpful, and helpful to Melissa because then she won't have people making comments she already thought of.
Thank you for showing that witnessing is not perfect, we rely on the Holy Spirit. I don’t have to witness perfectly; I need to be perfect in my willingness to witness, and to illuminate the word of God as inerrant. I don’t argue or fight; I simply share the word of God, truthfully and with respect.
Well said. My wife and I do the same.
@sherynngofa6175
Excellent comment! I will write that down as a reminder for myself.
I just don't know how to go about witnessing. I've tried a little, but not enough! I got the book Tactics but just don't know how to begin as I'm not outgoing!
@@KM-zn3lx U must be Equipped first. Read and Study the Scriptures. Pray for the Holy Spirit to lead you. Every time u get stumped, use that to research the answer for the next encounter.
Good idea to go out with a Mature disciple.
I share the word of god to tell people about his love of slavery, rape and genocide.
THIS is the best format, KEEP doing this format please! :D It was NOT annoying. . . more informative :D
Agreed! Witnessing and also helping us, or me at least, how to witness. Love it! ❤ learned a lot and pray more have the courage and boldness to do this for Jesus!
One thing I learned about talking to people in a significantly different position: You’re not going to convince them or change their mind in one conversation. I call it the Johnny Appleseed method. Christians usually say “plant seeds”
Sometimes you have to plant so that others may reap. Sometimes you reap where others have sown.
Yes. Rarely do I get the chance to help 'lead' someone to Christ. I plant seeds. God Gives The Increase. 1 Corinthians 3:6-8
No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up on the last day. -Jesus
Careful, cuz it might backfire and turn the other way
This comment is cringe
@@Joshua-dc1bswhat a paranoid, fear based response.
This is what keeps so many Christian’s in the Phariseeans zone…
I promise you, being stuck in fear, instead of living in love (god is love, after all)…will cause more damage than you can possibly imagine.
The thinking behind a comment like yours is what drives divisiveness, and us vs them mentality. Is your god not big enough? Is your god not wise enough? That you can talk to all of the divine’s creation and be ok.
What kind of faith does a person have, if they are afraid of being in contact with others of other beliefs?
You are planting so many seeds Melissa. Giving them food for thought. How wonderful. Thank you!!!
Ye shall reap what you sow . . . *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.”
*Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”
*Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive."
*Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy."
*Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_
*Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country.
*1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you"
*1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
I actually love the way you do this, Melissa. I think asking questions using a style that respectfully allows the person to express their views is what Jesus did. "Who do you say I am?"
UU and Unity are similar. I attended a Unity church for about two years.. when I heard the pastor say he wanted to rewrite the Bible. It became intolerable for me. I am now Christian and have been baptized.
Hallelujah! . . . *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.”
*Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”
*Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive."
*Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy."
*Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_
*Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country.
*1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you"
*1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
I love your approach! Not pushing “religion down their throats” and condemnation. You planted a seed and that is good!
What's wrong with a more direct approach?
@@Psycho--Troll_Slayer strawman much?
I couldn't agree more!!
@@Psycho--Troll_Slayer😂😂😅😅
@@nomdeguerre8464smh. Stop yourself nomdeguree.
NO ONE said, nor insinuated that there is anything wrong with being direct. So please...do not put words in ppls mouths. That's one of the reasons the rest of us appreciate Melissa so much: Bc she is VERY direct...infact, as direct as direct can get, as well as clear &uncompromising.
As far as your comment; "strawman much?". That sarcastic snark is highly uncalled-for & does not belong in this comment section. This is "Melissa's house". Youd ought to behave yourself & demonstrate the respect & decorum she deserves by treating her company/her viewers with the same respect & decorum you would if we were all sitting with the Dougherty's at their dinner table having a convo.
How's THAT for "direct"?
I agree with the questions you asked and even the ones you wanted to ask.
I am all about being gracious and keeping the conversation open instead of hitting them directly with the “You’re wrong and headed to Hell!”
The prayer is always that you have another opportunity to speak with someone again and of course that the Holy Spirit opens their eyes to see the Truth.
That's very good because I can assure you that when Christians come at people like that and are unable to have a respectful conversation....it comes off very belittling and judgemental and I think it offends far more people than anything else which would be the opposite of bringing people to know Yeshua....and for me personally whenever I come across people who behave like that it looks like severe brainwashing from my perspective and thus is extremely difficult to take seriously. I think this is even more true for people that have no background w spiritual teachings and/ or religion.
How did the Bible instruct us to go out?
@@squirrelgirl1853 How do you bring people to know Yeshua? I think possibly you can bring people to know about Yeshua, but I think Yeshua is the only one who can bring a person to know Him...have intimate relationship with Him.
@@justpassingthrough2195 I agree....I also think we can bring people to know Him through our example and of course talking about Him....
@@nomdeguerre8464 Go out into all to the world….
Nicely done and very graceful with your presence. As a former new-ager, I really enjoy these even if they make me cringe for what I once wholeheartedly believed. I was deceived as much as anyone, but after reading sacred scripture it became overwhelmingly apparent that Jesus is the one who saves souls.
Melissa, make sure to tell folks each time you talk with them to WATCH THE VIDEO THEY'LL BE IN! That way, they can hear all the questions you wish you'd asked at the time but couldn't, or the ones that you think of later.
Well done, sister. I've street evangelized, and it's not easy, despite what some folks might be thinking from the comfort of their couches. 😂
Thanks Melissa, I heard a lot of Greg Koukl phrases during your commentary 👍🏽🙏
One thing that stood out to me with these two interviewees is that they were utterly biblically illiterate (I'm not mocking or condemning, just stating facts). While their beliefs sounded nice, they proved hollow, which is pitiable for any belief anyone might hold. May God raise up people like me, you, Greg Koukl, etc to gently challenge these hollow beliefs and teach what's in the Bible.
Consider the irony-- the Bible is currently more accessible AND readable to all Americans than at any other time in human history, yet Americans are more biblically illiterate than ever. 😢
Interrupting the interview wasn't annoying AT ALL! I love learning from you. And you're right - they were so generous to share with you.
I like that you are respectful of others when speaking to them
First you're not annoying nor is the presentation of your videos. I love the way you are tackling this. Humility and being humble is the way. I'm sure you'll be ready if the conversation turns aggressive. Making them think and allowing us to see you in action is a blessing, thank you. Keep up the great work!
I really like these interviews because they’re raw and real - not staged - thanks Melissa
Thank you, Melissa, for taking the time to create and edit this
Yes! Thank you so much
I think people get more out of being heard and seeing patience and love from a Christian is valuable in itself! You did a great job letting them finish their thought and not correcting them. Maybe offer if they want to you to pray with them about anything at the end. Usually people are welcome to this :) love your videos
As a former hardcore evangelical Christian of 30 years who now aligns more with the UU, I found this fascinating. Thanks for sharing.
Do you enjoy life with this wide belief system?
@@kelseykjarsgaard5774 absolutely
@@kelseykjarsgaard5774 I didn't know people in China, Iran, North Korea, Russia have YT.
*1 Timothy 2:1-3* “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people - for *KINGS* and all those in *authority* - that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior.”
*Romans 13:1* "Let everyone be SUBJECT to the *governing* authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been *established* by God."
*Deuteronomy 17:14-15* "When you enter the land the Lord your God is giving you and have taken possession of it and settled in it, and you say, 'Let us set a *KING* over us like all the nations around us,' be sure to appoint over you a *KING* the Lord your God chooses."
*Matthew 22:20-22* "And he asked them, 'Whose image is this? And whose inscription?'
'Caesar’s,' they replied. Then he said to them, 'So _give_ back to CAESAR what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.'”
Melissa I really like the narration and info in between the street interview. It's really helpful. Plus it allows you to help educate us as viewers and share things you weren't able to say in the interview.
These videos are great! I love seeing how you engage others in a conversation about Jesus and Christianity. Thank you for sharing them with us. I look forward to more of this type of video.
I was a Unitarian Universalist for several years. For me, it was kind of holding space while a certain type of evangelicalism was deconstructed (although no one used that term then), and a deeper, more rounded, grounded and balanced, but theologically orthodox, faith was reconstructed. Without UUs, I might just have sunk away into atheism, and deconstruction would have resulted in apostasy rather than returning, in the end, to a stronger Christian faith.
Wow! It's amazing how God works in such different ways with different people to get them to the Truth.
I'm glad you were able to use UU as a stepping stone to the truth. But here in New England, UU Churches are nothing more than leftist breeding grounds with BLM banners across the front, where anything truly Biblical and orthodox is mocked and shamed and anything occult, feminist, or LGBT is glorified. I get a creepy feeling of disgust every time I have to drive by one... ick!
Good boy . . . *1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.”
*Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”
*Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive."
*Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy."
*Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_
*Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country.
*1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you"
*1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
Love these videos! I am so happy that people have an opportunity to be challenged in a loving way. Hopefully they really do think more deeply about these things afterward 🥰
I'm definitely thinking!
If you're not Born Again, you're not Born Again....
Amen! What a great conversation! I'm really just blown away on how long they stayed and honestly answered questions. Praying for them.
My husband's grandmother is a UU, and I've struggled with figuring out how to talk to her about our different beliefs. She's always giving us and our children books on spiritualism, and for my husband, who is a newer Christian, and our daughter, who is also a newer Christian, it's very confusing. I would love to see more of these kinds of videos, as well as more videos on understanding what UU beliefs actually are, and some good ways to engage with them about the truth of the gospel.
Wonder if she ever saw "A Christmas Carol". Usually convincing someone that the Present came from the Past is usually relatively easy.
Have you suggested that your husband and daughter not read the UU materials ?They are not Biblically based and there is nothing to be gained by reading the material. It is like reading material on the Islamic and trying to understand it in light of Christian beliefs.
@sharondoan1447 Trust me, I wisked those books away as soon as they got here. I've been torn about whether or not to donate this last batch. The last few times, I've actually thrown them away. On the one hand, I don't want someone else to read them and end up confused, but on the other hand, is it ethical for me to throw them out? I'll probably throw then away, but I'm interested in what y'all think.
Perhaps simply asking them how Jesus is the Messiah if he was virgin born "Outside the Male Line of the Kings". This usually fixes a lot of doctrinal issues. Though only if that's your will. ☺
@@cherietillapaughhott1012 Thinking about how I might handle those materials if my relative was sending them to me, I concluded that I would burn them or perhaps shred them. My beliefs are rooted in Jesus as the Savior . Because of that it would be a serious breech of my faith to pass along literature that was not true to my faith. Why? It seems to me that it is outside my duty to spread teachings that I find untrue. I don’t think I owe it to others to provide them with alternative approaches to any religion. There seems to be tons of opportunities for that already.
I liked how you brought us up to speed by explaining as the conversation progressed. Wonderful format, keep it this way please. Very good interview and the rest will be up to the Holy Spirit. In fact it was God who orchestrated this meeting.
Wow! You are an inspiration. You have much more patience than I have, and we can all learn from your method and courage to be open minded while staying steadfast in your faith! Good work!
Melissa, thank you so much for your honesty. None of us are perfect. I do think the only thing that could have made this conversation better is just sharing the gospel. Share the truth with them because that's what they need! Notice I'm not saying what I would have done -- I wouldn't even have the courage to approach strangers with a microphone! Overall, great video. I appreciate your commentary interspersed with the conversation. Thanks for your faithfulness to the Truth and sharing with us!
My sister commented as we passed a "U.U." building, "I'm not sure what their beliefs are.: And I said, "That's okay, they don't know either."
As a U.U member that is 100% true.
Obviously I can't speak for all U.U members.
But I view religion as a fun thought experiment knowing it is 100% unknowable. The U.U church I use as a community source and a place for volunteer opportunities to help the less fortunate.
@tetrisamv3960 Thanks for confirming.
@@dnzswithwombats Sure thing. :) Have a great day
@tetrisamv3960 Be saved.
Interesting interview. I think I have run across unitary universalists before. I’ve noticed they often are able to talk fluently about subjects a mile wide but only go an inch deep which gives the perception of intelligence but It’s been my experience that when asking deep analytical or philosophical questions they deflect and stay in the shallows . I don’t think you would have got much further than you did going through direct route, they likely would have either deflected or cut your conversation short. I believe weather you planted a seed or watered, God gives the increase. Awesome job.
You are so approachable in talking with strangers. Do you think having a mic makes people more willing to engage?
People seem to want their opinions known. But are they interested in receiving information or challenges to their thinking. Seems they "think" rather than "believe".
I so respect and appreciate you! Keep up the good work!
I hope they both take the opportunity to meet Jesus one day!
This is so vulnerable and valuable of you share with people (us, your viewers). Thank you!! It’s so encouraging to see someone just engaging in thought-provoking, gospel-centric conversations for Jesus’ sake, while doing it imperfectly and not only showing your “best moments” or whatever. This is how seeds are planted! And i think you are doing it faithfully. Thank you for sharing :)
Just found your channel as I was perusing basketball clips…oddly there you were! Thank you for your testimony and sharing it with us. Very encouraging. God bless you
I recently moved in with my daughter and her family to rest and take a break for a while and I have great news. She approached me yesterday and said, “I don’t think I would feel right if I was to go to that Univeralist Unitarian church, what about that church of Christ that’s on the next block over?” Thank God!!! She’s still somewhat new though/new age but had been saved and baptized when she was young but still 🙏🏽
Love that you're going out and talking to people. Great job.
Beautiful conversation, loved how just humble and respectful you were in this conversation. A beautiful dialogue.
We're to plant and water, but God gives the increase.
Wonderful thing you're doing here- making people think about their positions on this! All tastefully done, as well. Calling them out on camera in a way that makes them feel attacked, or "less than" wouldn't be effective. You were very calm, and just had conversations that we all should be having!
Praying for you, and praying for these ladies- that the seeds you planted will take root! 💛
GOD BLESS you melissa for going out there, and having them hopefully something to think about, I asked OUR HEAVENLY FATHER ABBA to soften their hearts and turn to HIM. So thanks again MY SISTER IN CHRIST🔥🩷🙌🏼
Thanks for this video, Melissa. I love your approach. Hopefully, I’ll learn more of “how to put a stone in someone’s shoe” and try to understand where they’re coming from, rather than forcing my beliefs. You’re right, of course, it’s the job of the Holy Spirit to convict and convince.
Amen sister!
It's great that you are self-aware and realize that you must make a connection in order to have any meaningful dialog and avoid an assertive posture that causes others to put up defensive barriers. Your pause to insert analysis adds another dimension that I find very thought-provoking. Good Job!
I think you did a good job in the conversation. I wouldn't be too concerned about what you could have/should have said. I think if you just keep listening to what they are saying and keep giving them things to think about instead of trying to come up with the right thing to say, you'll do well. Not many people like to be corrected in a conversation with someone they just met. The goal of our instruction is love, right? "...from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from a sincere faith." 1 Tim 1:5.
Also, Colossians 4:6 "Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person."
Seems like that is what you were doing!
Just came across your channel- much wisdom with humility. Keep reaching the lost to His Glory
I try to ask people- what’s your hope for the next life?
You handled that beautifully...some plant...others water...now they get to ponder these things & hopefully read the gospels
AMEN! *Romans 1:1* "Paul, a _bondservant_ of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle and set apart"
*1-Peter 2:18* _“SLAVES,_ in reverent fear of God submit yourselves to your masters, not only to those who are good and considerate, but also to those who are harsh.”
*Ephesians 6:5-7* _"SLAVES,_ obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as *SLAVES* of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart.”
*Titus 2:9-10* "Teach _SLAVES_ to be subject to their masters in everything, to try to please them, not to talk back to them, and not to steal from them, but to show that they can be fully trusted, so that in every way they will make the teaching about God our Savior attractive."
*Psalm 123:2* "I lift up my eyes to you, to you who sit enthroned in heaven, as the eyes of *SLAVES* look to the hand of their *master,* as the eyes of a female slave look to the hand of her mistress, so our eyes look to the Lord our God, till he shows us his mercy."
*Exodus 21:20-21* “Anyone who beats their male or female *SLAVE* with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result . . . but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their _property."_
*Leviticus 25:44-45* "Your male and female *SLAVES* are to come from the Nations around you. From them, you may buy slaves. You may also buy some of the temporary residents living among you and members of their clan born Into Your Country.
*1-Corinthians 7:20-21* "Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. Were you a *SLAVE* when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you"
*1-Corinthians 7:22-24* "He one who was free when called is _Christ’s_ *SLAVE.* Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them."
That's ok Melissa. You are a bright star!
Thank you for showing us this video. I have several acquaintances that our universalists. And I never really understood what their Church stood for . I never knew how to talk with them. I know it holds a wide variety of beliefs. And these people that I know are gay. I love it when you stop the video and talk about what you want to say it really helps understand where you're coming from. Or else we forget what the people have said I like the commentaries keep doing it this way it's wonderful. 😊😊
I absolutely LOVE the way you talk to people and share the gospel by asking them questions and challenging them to really think. You have a gift, dear sister. I hope you know that. ❤
I personally think you have a great approach with these people.
Love these “apologetics on the go” videos Melissa! You do such a great job 💕
I really enjoy these videos where you go out and talk to people. You definitely seem to be gifted in this area. Looking forward to seeing more of these.
I find it brave and great that you are doing this. It's definitely a learning opportunity for us watching and your humility with presenting this is a great way for you to grow while doing this.
I would say in some ways it prompts me to really think what I believe about the gospel. Do I really understand them and my stance with being a Christian. It's a healthy reminder to examine one's self.
Thank you.
Bless you. Those ladies remind me of how much I need to work on being more patient.
INVITING them to read the gospels is great. Because you are gracious and kind there is a good chance they will do that.
You nailed it at the end. We cannot convert people as that is the Holy Spirit's role. Wonderful job. Thank you. What I have found, as I have become more open and firm in my beliefs as a Christian, is a high level of ignorance about the Bible and Jesus. It is frightening.
how could you be surprised about the confusion of the bible and its validilty ...Its a million different variations of its belief...its like finding a needle in a hay stack
@@MrBigcnasty I think what you are trying to say about the million variations and finding a needle in a haystack is about the translation, but I don't know. That said I do want to clarify your other point. I did not say confusion, I said ignorance, and that is from talking with people who are lifelong churchgoers and VERY religious that have never read the actual Bible. Not the KJV, NIV, NET, ENT, or any other translation. Not once. To me that is ignorance, and if I understood your statement on variation, the Bible translations all say the same thing with different words. Even though the translation of the KJV is not the most direct it offers the ability to recall the scripture similar to singing a song as it is in a lyrical form. Whereas, the NET can overwhelm folks with the pure amount of data it offers. I tell people to "Just pick it up and start reading" and don't sweat the small stuff. I hope I clarified my thoughts and understood yours accurately.
That “time” issue is always a bummer for me too, but then I have to remember how the scriptures remind us that one plants, one waters, and God brings the increase. So, hopefully down the road, there will be another planter, maybe another, and eventually a water-er. And finally, God will grant them that ah-ha moment. Nice work. I enjoy your videos.
New Mexico... nice. I just got a call from a person in NM yesterday about one of my daily devotions I write for a publication.
As believers, we have to get moving with the Gospel. You're on target, Melissa.
Very good melissa i enjoyed this format & as always give us food for thought in how we too can approach with love & respect.
I really appreciate your style and tone and patience you take.
Clarity over agreement.
Praise God! I see him working through you in your grace, humility and kindness. You do a fantastic job to research, understand and converse with people of different beliefs.
When the women spoke about their agnostic beliefs and about ‘goodness’, I think that would have been a great time to jump in to how do we know what is good? Who has the moral authority? To really dig into that and unveil that there is a God. It made me think of Tim Keller’s series ‘Questioning Christianity’ and his book ‘The Reason for God’. I think a lot of people these days love to ask big questions, think, and reason their way to the truth and praise God that in doing that with guidance from the Lord they will find Him 🙏🏽🥳🥰
I am thankful to see in practice exactly what you mentioned at the end:
We are /not/ the Holy Spirit, and laying out all of Theology and Apologetics wouldn’t save someone anyway. It’s sad that we don’t get reminded and see in practice more, how to do what you are gifted in, share your faith, and be listening to where the Holy Spirit leads; He knows just what is needed for a person at any given moment in their lives. ❤️
You are doing AWESOME, Melissa! The format is fantastic, and how you interact with people is wonderful. The Holy Spirit will give you the words. Praying for your ministry, and also for those you are interacting with! God bless you and your family! 😃🙏🏻❤️
This was such a great video. 😊 So interesting. I did learn something from watching it.
I think what you were doing, and how you did it, was great!...Your approach of "attract more bees with honey rather than vinegar" is spot on. Ray Comfort from Living Waters is a master with asking the questions like you asked and then injecting the reality and truth of Jesus and the gospel into the conversation. Keep doing what you're doing!
A vote in for this format. Love the commentary inserts. Very educational.
Love these!
Well, I just applaud your gentle spirit and the way you talked to these ladies. I totally agree with you. You do what you are gifted to do.
You did great. You will get better every time you do it. Definitely pray for them! I had a UU friend whom I didn’t know was, and it caught me by surprise.
Love the intermittent commentary!
You have a very appealing and engaging nature . Your humility is so refreshing. I love your whole approach!
Lol ur commentary is never annoying no matter how u do it! Its very helpful and pleasant.
I love that people say they like Jesus, he is a teacher of wisdom, but never actually read the gospels. It's amazing.
Keep up these interviews, and keep up the commentary! It is sooo helpful to walk thru each interview with you like that.
This is really good. They were honest and you gave plenty of grace.
Nice to see you again Melissa
Wow. You've got all kinds of folks in Albu-quirky. Those kinds of conversations are so encouraging. It is good to create positive rapport with unbelievers and give them something to think about. Nicely done.
So amazing you can do this and feel excited about it! I'm impressed by your ability and ease with talking with people :) I wish they could have stayed longer to talk more, but you were faithful to give them things to think about! Be a stone in their shoe :D
Kudos to you sis for doing this! If I could give one piece of advice, when telling people to read the gospels, unbelievers would get the most out of the gospel of John. Johns gospel is directed at unbelievers, it states the importance of belief in Jesus. Shows God's character beautifully. All around the best gospel for unbelievers to read. May God bless you as you continue to have modest and genuine conversations with people. Grace and Peace be with you! ❤️
You're excellent at these interviews Melissa! 😊
Love that you can dive right in and get folks to really consider their own position in contrast with the Gospel and real Christianity.
Great job Melissa! Our job isn't to save people but to move them one inch closer to Christ, the Holy Spirit will do what he purposes.
Some great questions to ask that help move toward the gospel are: Do you know what the gospel is? Can you articulate the gospel? Then offer a biblical description of the gospel!
How can one ask another what the Gospel is (as to teach them) and not even know themselves what the Gospel is?
How know anyone is saved
I actually like how you stopped and gave commentary during the conversation replay. Well done, btw.
Melissa, you have an extraordinary amount of self-control. Kudos to you. With just a limited amount of time to talk to someone, I would like to see what the outcome would be if you opened with and concentrated on the rapture of the church. It might give them a more ‘pressing’ need to look into Christianity.
This was great! I had assumed that they believed in God of the Bible. I also thought they believed in Universalism with regards to salvation in Christ. This was a learning experience for me. Thank you!!✝️🙏🏻📖❤️
Quick Feedback: Being very picky about YT channel set designs, your minimalist, artistic, earthtone-ish, sometimes darker, light-accented backdrop is very cool. Nice job to whoever did that. You in the middle, surrounded by such creativity, makes for a complete balance of Beauty and Art!
Your reference to putting a stone in their shoe is perfect. I've always thought of it as planting a seed. I enjoyed the video very much.
I love the way you did your video this time, I cant wait for the next one!
Well done! Your work is very good.
There are few things more convincing about the gospel than knowing these people traveled around in often unfavorable locations to spread the gospel while others were trying to have them killed, all based on their personal recollections of their time with Jesus. People don’t do that kind of thing without having been truly convinced themselves. They were convicted with his life and his teachings, so much so that most gave their lives as well.
As far as what you are doing, even if they are lost, others who watch these videos with the explanations you give very may well be found.
Great job and great video! Thanks for sharing! Praise GOD! 🙏🙏
The more I hear Unitarian Universalists speak, the more they say stuff I also hear from atheists or materialists.
I think a lot of people need more patience in these talks, people build their ideas over years and it will probably take years to change them too though there are exceptions we should always have patience, kindness, and persistence.
As a secular person, i enjoyed this format. I think your challenge would be finding people who want to be engaged and are prepared to see all arguments through to their conclusions. Since I'm not convinced these two did want that full conversation, your commentary provided extra insight.
Pray that the Lord sends more people to talk with them and speak the truth in love to those 2 women
I LUV THIS VIDEO AND LIVE FOR CONTENT LIKE THIS . AMAZING WORK CONTINUE WITH THIS STYLE OF INFORMATION AND MORE INFO GATHERING WITH CHALLENGES LIKE THIS . 10\10 LOVE AND WOULD WATCH THIS RATHER THAN A GOOD MOVIE . AWESOME WORK MELISSA !!!!
I love what you are doing! I am a coward when it comes to talking to others about Jesus. This really helps me learn more how to do this and hopefully will help me gain confidence as I do.
What do you think about Jesus?
Melissa you handled that with grace, dignity and truth. Keep up the good work and study.
This was great, thanks for posting, Melissa!