Someone who is fervent in their faith approaches you and says, “You’re wrong. Not only are you wrong, you’re stupid. You’ll roast in Hell for (believing that, saying that, doing that).”
Think that’s a good way to influence people–well, influence them to change directions? One of my tests is–how would you feel if someone approached you that way? Probably defensive? Probably another emotion ranging from annoyed to angry? Most likely you don’t walk away thinking highly of the attacking person.
Andy Stanley made a comment in a talk recently, “It’s not our job to tell people they are wrong. If you are trying to influence people, making a point against them is counter-productive.”
Made me think about Jesus comment, why worry about the speck in someone else’s eye when you have a beam in yours.
Influencing people when deeply held, emotionally charged opinions are involved–whether politics or raising kids–is difficult. You don’t begin at the same point with the same assumptions. If you are trying to influence people for Jesus, better is to make sure that your life and your beliefs are congruent. “Walk the talk” is the popular phrase, I believe.
I guess I’d rather be like Jesus than Jeremiah.
Faith Venture 
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