Well, Ephesians (chapter four, to be specific) has got just the right thing for us to spread the Gospel, whether that be to the Chinese, one of your own race, or to any other nationality, as this verse applies to every human. If you want to, feel free to translate this Ephesians analysis into Chinese.
| Date | April 30, 2024 |
| Verse | Ephesians 4:11-16 (ESV): "And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes. Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love." |
| Explanation | Ephesians 4:11-16 describes the role of apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers in the early Christian community. Their primary task was to prepare the saints, or believers, for the work of spiritual leadership and to increase the number of Christ followers. The ultimate goal was for all believers to attain the unity of the faith and knowledge of the Son of God, mature into adulthood, and no longer be swayed by various doctrines or deceitful schemes. This passage remains relevant today as it emphasizes the importance of unity, maturity, and the role of the body of Christ in the spiritual growth of each individual. It also highlights the need for believers to engage in respectful dialogue with those of different beliefs, fostering a community that grows and builds itself up in love. |
| Societal Relevance | In modern society, Christians can spread the gospel in a respectful and considerate manner by: 1. Living a Christ-like life: The most powerful way to share the gospel is through the example of a believer's actions. By living a life that reflects the teachings of Christ, others may be drawn to the faith. 2. Speaking the truth in love: When sharing the gospel, it is essential to do so with kindness, respect, and compassion. This approach can help minimize offense and create an open and receptive environment for dialogue. 3. Listening and understanding: Seek to understand the perspectives and beliefs of others before sharing your own. This approach fosters respect and trust and may lead to deeper, more meaningful conversations. 4.Focusing on common ground: Identify shared values and beliefs with others and build upon those areas of agreement as a foundation for discussing the gospel. 5.Using clear and respectful language: Be mindful of the language used when sharing the gospel. Avoid inflammatory or divisive terms that may offend or alienate others. |
Hi Alex
Agreed. We must try to be a good witness, but the Gospel comes first. Then, our actions must try to stick to the good teachings of Jesus, even if we may fail sometimes.
