Do not speak in the hearing of a fool,
for he will despise the wisdom of your words.

Proverbs 23:9

Fools really need Jesus! Of course, we all do. But, we’ve learned that a fool says in his heart there is no God which is their first and foundational issue. So, they really need The Gospel. But, how do you present The Gospel to a fool when our key verse says not to speak to a fool because they will despise your wisdom. It makes sense that they would despise The Gospel if they believe (and it is a belief) that there is no God. But does that mean we shouldn’t share The Gospel with them? No! That’s the simple answer. But, I do think there is some ground work that needs to happen in sharing the salvation message with the truly foolish person who fits the descriptions given throughout Proverbs.

First: Prayer is always important in evangelism, but when dealing with the foolish, I think it is extra important. And, here’s the thing, you never know when you are going to have the opportunity to share Jesus, so in reality, you never know when you will be confronted with a fool when it comes to faith issues or discussions about God or religion. So, I think we need to be prayed up! Simply asking God to be our eyes and ears and our voice when engaging with anyone and everyone.

1 Peter 3:15

But sanctify Christ as Lord in Your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence.

Second: Use discernment! I know I harp on this, but developing a discerning heart and mind is just so vital in every area of life; and so much the more in relationships; even first-time meetings. If we ask God for discernment and we work to develop this in wisdom and understanding, it won’t take us long to figure out if someone we are speaking with is a fool. I don’t think finding someone to be a fool should stop us from trying to build into this person and praying for the opportunity to share salvation with them. We will, however, need to adjust our method; words, tone, body language and even expectations. Paul kept the same message and never watered down any part of The Gospel, but he adjusted his presentation depending on who he was dealing with and talking with. 

1 Corinthians 9:22

To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some.

Third: Walk away, if needed. With prayer and discernment, there may come a time that you simply must walk away from a fool. It may not be possible or advisable to actually walk away, but you may have to walk away emotionally and from verbally sharing The Good News. Then Pray for God to send another Jesus ambassador to this person. Even then, remember that Jesus told his twelve disciples that if a town they visited refused to treat them well and allow them to share Jesus’ message that they should leave that town immediately and shake off the dust of that town from their sandals. A strong admonition. (Matthew 10:14, Mark 6:11, Luke 9:5)

Four: Always remember Who does the saving and who is simply the messenger!

So then neither he who plants is anything,
nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase.

1 Corinthians 3:7