Shaped By Regret: Re-examining Evangelism
Yesterday was a good day, but a good one. This morning I walked down to the COFT where I led a workshop on missional third places. After a brief introduction of the concept of the third place, I explored the three points I covered in my blog some time ago (found here: 1, 2 & 3). The group was very welcoming and engaging. Besides, I got to connect with my friends Peter & Alison Lublink.
As part of my presentation, I showed the following video, a clip from the excellent film “The Big Kahuna”. Let me set up the clip. In this scene we meet three industrial lubricant salesman- Larry (Kevin Spacey), a brash, but honest veteran of sales; Phil (Danny Devito), Larry’s friend and a tired, seasoned salesman; and Bob (Peter Facinelli), a young evangelical Christian, a rookie in sales.
At one stage in the film, Bob is sent to connect with a potentially > major client, while Phil & Larry wait in the Hospitality Suite. When he returns, he reveals that he, indeed, met with the client, but rather than discuss industrial lubricants, shared about Jesus. Before long, Larry and Bob’s argument over this turns physical, with Larry storming out of the room.
I am always moved by this scene. What do you think?
so fantastic.. you won’t find a better description/critique of evangelism strategy anywhere.. i would say this even outshines rob bell’s bullhorn guy nooma. thanks jamie.
Friggin brilliant. I never saw this before. Thanks.
Must watch that movie again. Cheers.
Hey David. I haven’t seen that Nooma video. Now I’m curious. Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie
Glad you liked it, Jonathan.
Peace,
Jamie
Anonymous, enjoy! The whole film is excellent.
Peace,
Jamie
I’ve used this clip to teach about evangelism myself a time or two. That film is always within arms reach in my office!
Me too, Ryan.
Peace,
Jamie
This underscores the fact that we don’t want to be sold anything. If anything is good shouldn’t it sell itself? As this relates to missional theology, is this perspective a rebellion against selling and being sold?
Hey The Level,
I think the whole “sales” model falls short. I am more drawn to expressions that reflect courtship, relationship, etc. I am not sure I would call this a rebellion, but a re-orientation, recognizing where the consumer-culture has co-opted our way of being the Church. Thanks!
Peace,
Jamie