Podcast Summary: Saved Not Soft – "Winning Hearts with Preston Perry"

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Saved Not Soft, host Emy Moore welcomes Preston Perry, a multifaceted poet, author, evangelist, father, husband, and performance artist. Filmed in Atlanta, the conversation delves deep into Preston's transformative journey from a tumultuous upbringing in Chicago's south side to his impactful ministry focused on winning hearts rather than arguments. The episode, released on September 10, 2024, offers listeners rich insights into authentic Christian living, effective evangelism, and the importance of community and humility.

1. Preston Perry’s Testimony: From the Hood to Redemption

Preston shares his harrowing personal story, painting a vivid picture of his early life marked by poverty, violence, and criminal activities. Growing up in Chicago, he was surrounded by relatives involved in drug dealing and gang activities. His uncle, a significant figure in his life, was tragically killed, along with several cousins, deepening Preston's entrenchment in a life of chaos.

Preston Perry [03:39]: "I was a bad kid... started gang banging when I was 13. I was just a really, really, you know, just wild little dude."

At 16, Preston first encountered the gospel in a house church setting. Although initially attracted to the message, he didn't commit until two years later following the death of a friend, which served as a wake-up call to his sinful lifestyle.

Preston Perry [04:49]: "From there, I moved to the south suburbs in Chicago with my aunt... and I've been saved ever since."

2. The Influence of Family and Mentorship

Emy highlights the profound impact of Preston's grandmother, who, without preaching, prayed for their protection, subtly guiding their spirits.

Emy Moore [05:00]: "You know, my grandmother... just pray that the Lord would catch us before a bullet did."

Preston emphasizes how his grandmother’s silent support taught him to live out his faith authentically. This foundation influences his current approach to discipleship, focusing on genuine love and consistency rather than mere words.

Preston Perry [06:50]: "When I'm discipling... I want to live a life that's worthy of the gospel."

3. Evangelism: Winning Hearts Over Arguments

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the distinction between winning arguments and winning hearts. Preston recounts his encounters with individuals like John, a Jehovah's Witness, where initial confrontations aimed at proving theological points led to deeper, more meaningful dialogues once Preston shifted his focus to understanding and empathy.

Preston Perry [13:06]: "We don't do it to win arguments, but we do it to win hearts."

Emy echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the scriptural foundation for gentle and respectful evangelism.

Emy Moore [15:40]: "1 Peter 3:15... face your opponents in gentleness and kindness."

4. The Role of Wisdom and Compassion in Apologetics

Preston critiques the often information-heavy approach to apologetics, arguing that without wisdom and compassion, theological knowledge can become ineffective and even hypocritical. He shares experiences from evangelism conferences where those with extensive theological training struggled to connect authentically with people, unlike seasoned believers who led with humility and love.

Preston Perry [17:42]: "A wise person will always be way more effective than the smartest person in the room."

Emy concurs, highlighting the importance of balancing passion with disciplined, compassionate interaction.

5. Authentic Representation in Ministry and Social Media

The conversation shifts to the challenges of maintaining authenticity, especially in the age of social media. Preston discusses the misconceptions followers may have about his life based solely on online presence and the responsibility that comes with influence.

Preston Perry [48:30]: "Social media is like that little sign on the rearview mirror... People on social media seem closer to you than what they really are."

He emphasizes the necessity of being true to one's identity and cultural background to effectively minister to similar communities.

Preston Perry [23:25]: "God saved me for my culture to reach my culture."

Emy shares her experiences of negative interactions online, underscoring the importance of humility and genuine connection over superficial engagement.

6. The Importance of Community and Discipleship

Preston and Emy stress the critical role of being part of a local church community. They argue that authentic discipleship and accountability are fundamental to spiritual growth and effective ministry.

Preston Perry [55:37]: "It's just a matter of people healing and walking it out with the Lord."

Emy adds that many influencers and podcasters lack this foundational support, leading to ineffective and sometimes harmful outreach efforts.

7. Practical Applications for Listeners

In the latter part of the episode, Preston and Emy offer actionable advice for listeners seeking to grow their faith and evangelism efforts:

• Prayer and Personal Relationship with God: Prioritize communication with God to cultivate a genuine relationship.

  Preston Perry [74:06]: "Continue to pray and ask Him to help you."

• Engage Locally: Connect with a local church community for support, accountability, and discipleship.

  Emy Moore [75:05]: "Being committed to a local community is so important."

• Emphasize Wisdom Over Information: Focus on compassionate communication rather than just theological arguments.

  Preston Perry [16:16]: "God wants our information to be paired with His wisdom."

• Authentic Living: Reflect the gospel in everyday life through consistency in actions and love for others.

  Preston Perry [07:03]: "I want to be consistent with how I love my family... that consistency really just goes a long way."

Conclusion

The episode concludes with heartfelt praise and encouragement, as Emy expresses gratitude for Preston's insights and the transformative power of his ministry. Preston reiterates the essence of his message: winning hearts through authentic, compassionate evangelism grounded in a genuine relationship with God.

Emy Moore [77:55]: "Be reminded that you are heard, loved, and seen by Christ. Walk in wisdom, walk in your authority. And know that God just loves you so, so dearly and so, so much."

Listeners are encouraged to support Preston Perry through his various platforms, including Instagram, Spotify, and YouTube, to further engage with his teachings and ministry.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

1. Preston Perry [03:39]:

   "I was a bad kid... started gang banging when I was 13. I was just a really, really, you know, just wild little dude."

2. Preston Perry [04:49]:

   "From there, I moved to the south suburbs in Chicago with my aunt... and I've been saved ever since."

3. Preston Perry [06:50]:

   "When I'm discipling... I want to live a life that's worthy of the gospel."

4. Preston Perry [13:06]:

   "We don't do it to win arguments, but we do it to win hearts."

5. Emy Moore [15:40]:

   "1 Peter 3:15... face your opponents in gentleness and kindness."

6. Preston Perry [17:42]:

   "A wise person will always be way more effective than the smartest person in the room."

7. Preston Perry [23:25]:

   "God saved me for my culture to reach my culture."

8. Preston Perry [55:37]:

   "It's just a matter of people healing and walking it out with the Lord."

9. Preston Perry [74:06]:

   "Continue to pray and ask Him to help you."

10. Preston Perry [07:03]:

    "I want to be consistent with how I love my family... that consistency really just goes a long way."

Final Thoughts

Winning Hearts with Preston Perry is a profound exploration of authentic Christian evangelism, emphasizing the importance of empathy, wisdom, and genuine relationships over mere theological prowess. Through Preston's testimony and insightful dialogue with Emy Moore, listeners are inspired to reflect on their own approaches to faith and outreach, encouraging a more heartfelt and compassionate engagement with the world.