A Lifetime of Street Preaching
After five decades of open-air ministry, evangelist Ray Comfort shared his lessons with CBN News. The New Zealand native, now 75, co-founded The Way of the Master with actor Kirk Cameron in 2002. Living in Southern California since 1989, he continues daily outreach at a local college and on Huntington Beach. Despite his persistence, Comfort emphasized that he cannot claim credit for conversions. “It’s God that saves,” he said, describing his role as planting seeds.
Controversial View on the Sinner’s Prayer
Comfort admitted that he does not support the traditional “sinner’s prayer.” He argued it is unbiblical, pointing out its absence from Scripture. Using David’s repentance in 2 Samuel 12, he stressed that conviction must come from the heart. He compared it to a husband apologizing for adultery, noting that a scripted prayer lacks sincerity. True repentance, he said, must overflow from within rather than be repeated word-for-word.
Concerns About the Word Evangelism
Comfort also expressed unease with the term evangelism. He claimed it discourages Christians because it feels like a duty rather than a privilege. To him, proclaiming the gospel should be seen as urgent. He likened evangelism to rescuing a drowning child or a firefighter pulling someone from flames. Fear, he warned, must never stop Christians from speaking about Jesus.
Supporters and Critics Respond
Supporters praise Comfort’s boldness and creative use of analogies to spark conversations. His methods, such as bringing his sunglasses-wearing dog and using trivia, often break barriers. Admirers see his rejection of formulaic prayers as a call to deeper authenticity in faith. Critics, however, worry his dismissal of the sinner’s prayer could alienate churches that rely on it. Some argue his confrontational style and language about judgment may drive seekers away rather than draw them in.
Passing the Torch to a New Generation
Comfort views evangelism as a moral obligation, comparing Christians to doctors holding the cure for cancer. He insists that courage, not skill, defines gospel-sharing. With millions dying each year, he urges believers to face fears, pray for boldness, and carry on the Great Commission. Nearing the end of his ministry years, he wants to equip younger Christians to continue spreading the message with passion and urgency.
Source:
Evangelist Ray Comfort Calls the Sinner’s Prayer ‘Unbiblical’: ‘It’s Not in Scripture’
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