It could be a stranger who brushes you off. It could be a friend who wants to agree to disagree. Or it could be a family member who doesn’t want to talk about faith.

Seeing someone reject the gospel, the only hope for salvation, is never easy. The Bible says not everyone will accept the gospel (John 3:36), but rejection can still stir up insecurities and questions.

First, it’s important to remember what the believer’s job is in evangelism. Believers are called to share the gospel with the world (Matthew 28:19, 1 Peter 3:15, 2 Timothy 4:1-2), but people are incapable of saving other people. That’s the job of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Biblical Examples of Rejecting the Gospel

When Jesus sent His disciples to “‘the lost sheep of Israel (Matthew 10:6)'” to proclaim that the Kingdom of Heaven was near, He told them to look for homes that would receive them.

“‘If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, leave that home or town and shake the dust off your feet.'” -Matthew 10:14

How to Respond to Those Rejecting the Gospel

Some sources estimate that a person will hear the gospel 15 to 18 times on average before accepting it. If you are able to continue talking to someone about Jesus and that person is willing to listen, there’s no reason to stop trying.

In the end, every situation is unique. God may tug on your heart to keep evangelizing in a place you thought you would be for a short time, and He may prompt you to stop sharing with someone you see every day.

And even if someone never wants to hear the gospel again, you can always pray for the Lord to soften their heart. God’s timing is perfect, even if someone’s faith journey takes years. Meanwhile, rejection should not stop believers from sharing the gospel with all creation. Rejection will come, but so will Jesus when the gospel reaches all nations (Matthew 24:14).