How should Psalm 58:3 influence our approach to evangelism and discipleship? Psalm 58:3—The Foundational Diagnosis “The wicked are estranged from the womb; the liars go astray from birth.” • Human rebellion begins at conception; sin is innate, not merely learned (cf. Genesis 8:21; Romans 5:12). • Every person therefore needs divine rescue, not mere moral improvement (Ephesians 2:1–3). Why This Matters for Evangelism • Universal need: Because sin starts “from the womb,” no one is naturally exempt; the gospel must reach everyone (Romans 3:23). • Urgency: Estrangement is present from birth, so delaying gospel witness leaves people in deadly separation (John 3:18). • Dependence on God: If sinners “go astray from birth,” only the Spirit can awaken them (John 6:44; 16:8). • Clarity of message: We proclaim rescue, not self-help. Emphasize repentance and faith in Christ’s finished work (Acts 17:30–31). • Humility: We, too, were “estranged,” so we approach the lost with compassion, not superiority (Titus 3:3–5). Our Posture with Seekers and Skeptics • Patience—spiritual blindness is deep-rooted; expect gradual illumination (2 Timothy 2:24–26). • Persistent prayer—ask God to grant new birth (John 3:5–8). • Biblical saturation—faith comes by hearing the Word (Romans 10:17). Implications for Discipleship • Heart transformation required: Since sin is internal, discipleship targets motive and desire, not just behavior (Proverbs 4:23; Matthew 23:26). • Ongoing warfare: The flesh remains; equip believers for continual repentance and renewal (Galatians 5:17; 1 Peter 2:11). • Rooted in identity: Remind converts they are a “new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17) yet must actively “put to death” the old self (Colossians 3:5). • Scripture-centered growth: God’s Word re-trains minds that once “went astray” (Psalm 119:9, 11; 2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Community accountability: Estrangement is reversed as believers join Christ’s body for mutual sharpening (Hebrews 10:24–25). Practical Takeaways • Share the gospel broadly, assuming every person’s innate need. • Lean on prayer and the Spirit’s power, not persuasive technique alone. • Anchor discipleship in heart change through Scripture and community. • Model humility and compassion, remembering our own rescue from birth-rooted sin. |
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