Why Some People Come to Jesus Quickly—and Others Don’t

In this episode, Tina Waldrom dives into the idea that everyone’s journey to faith looks different. She unpacks why some people come to Jesus quickly, while others take a bit more time. Tina reminds us that evangelism is not a one-size-fits-all process. She explains how we can better understand where someone is on their spiritual journey—and more importantly, how to walk alongside them patiently and with grace. Rather than being discouraged when things move slowly, she encourages us to see every small step as part of the bigger picture.

Tina also shares practical advice for staying motivated when our evangelism efforts don’t bring immediate results. She highlights the importance of consistency, genuine relationships, and celebrating even the smallest spiritual milestones. Evangelism, she says, is often a long-term investment, and it’s vital to stay engaged and hopeful throughout the process. Whether someone comes to Jesus quickly or over many years, our role is to be faithful, kind, and ready to share when the time is right. This episode is a helpful reminder that every journey matters—and that God works in people’s hearts in His own perfect timing.

 

In this podcast episode, you will discover that:

• Some people come to faith suddenly, while others take time.
• Spiritual progress can be measured using the Engle scale.
• Just because someone hasn't converted doesn't mean they're not growing.
• Celebrate small wins in the spiritual journey of others.
• Trust God's timing in the conversion process.
• Focus on movement, not just decisions.
• Stay consistent in showing love and care for those you're reaching out to.
• Find support and accountability in your evangelism efforts.
• Your witness matters, even if you don't see immediate results.
• And more…

 

When Faith Grows Slowly  - a short video clip from this episode

 

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 *OTHER PODCAST EPISODES LINKED TO THIS

Mobilising Women to Heal Community Pain With Letitia Shelton

Living in Miracles – The Life and Ministry of Evangelist Tim Hall

Karen Workentin on Street Evangelism – Is It Still Effective Today?

Practical Steps You Can Take to Stay Focused on Church Evangelism

Evangelism: Habits not Skills with Geoff Folland

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Discussion Questions

1. Do I truly see conversion as a journey, not just a moment?

How might this understanding reshape your approach to evangelism with friends or family who haven’t yet “made a decision”?

Read: Philippians 1:6 – “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion...”

2. Am I paying attention to what God is already doing in someone's life, or just looking for a “decision moment”?

What subtle signs of spiritual openness have you seen in the people you're praying for?

Read: John 5:17 – “My Father is always at His work to this very day, and I too am working.”

3. How can I use the Engel Scale or similar tools to recognize and celebrate spiritual progress?

Where do you think someone you care about might be on the journey toward Christ? What movement can you celebrate?

Read: Mark 4:26–28 – “First the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel...”

4. Am I trusting God's timing, or growing impatient with how slowly someone is coming to faith?

How can you lean into God’s timing when you feel discouraged about someone’s spiritual journey?

Read: Ecclesiastes 3:11 – “He has made everything beautiful in its time.”

5. Am I consistent in showing Christ's love, even when I see no immediate results?

What practical steps can you take to stay consistent in loving those who are spiritually distant?

Read: Galatians 6:9 – “Let us not become weary in doing good…”

6. How intentional am I about praying with long-term vision for those I want to see saved?

Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.”

What specific things can you begin praying over the lives of those you’re trying to reach?

7. Am I walking alone in evangelism, or do I have support and community?

Who could you partner with for encouragement, prayer, and accountability as you continue reaching out to others?

Read: Ecclesiastes 4:9–10 – “Two are better than one…”