The Lausanne Global Conversation is on the World Wide Open Network
Author: Benjamin A. Kwashi
Date: 29.07.2010
Category: World Faiths
Editor’s Note: This Cape Town 2010 Advance Paper has been written by Benjamin A. Kwashi as an overview of the topic to be discussed at the Morning Plenary session on “Bearing Witness to the Love of Christ with People of Other Faiths.” Responses to this paper through the Lausanne Global Conversation will be fed back to the author and others to help shape their final presentations at the Congress.
INTRODUCTION
Romans 1: 16-17
For I am not ashamed of the gospel; it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who has faith, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed through faith for faith; as it is written, ‘The one who is righteous will live by faith.’
In these two verses Paul encapsulates the central core of his theology and of his way of life. Remember that this remarkable man had been not just a non-Christian, but also a fanatical, militant activist, committed to the extermination of Christians and to the total eradication of their faith. After his encounter with Christ on the Damascus road, however, he was totally changed and his whole life was thereafter given not to eradicating, but to proclaiming the gospel. He became eager to preach to as many people as he could reach – including the Romans, the colonial overlords, despised and hated by many of his people. This was for Paul, as it is for many today, a task that needed courage. Paul, however, emphasises that he is not ashamed of the gospel (cf. Romans 10:11); rather, it is this gospel which has the power to change lives, and even to change prevailing circumstances. Paul speaks from personal experience: he knows how a person of another faith can be totally changed and transformed. The gospel is power – dynamite (the root of the word).
This power is the power of God working towards the salvation of everyone who believes. It is more than just preaching, more than just talking. It is not merely an announcement of the fact that salvation will take place one day. The gospel is itself a divine power leading to salvation; it leads to faith and action, to the restoration of lives, of communities, of the environment.
This salvation is available for all, of whatever tribe, race, nation or faith. Those who accept it are brought into a right relationship with God, and seek to uphold God’s standards, God’s way of living, and God’s righteousness in the world. This is the righteousness that produces holiness, truth and justice. Such righteousness, however, cannot be attained by keeping the law, but only by faith.
God created the heavens and the earth and all the people in it, and this means that peoples of all faiths and practices were also created by God. Still today, some have not had the chance to hear the gospel, some have heard but turned away, some do not even care. We, however, have heard the gospel and have committed ourselves to follow Christ. One of the many implications of this is that we must live together with all other brothers and sisters whom God has created – whether or not they believe in Him. As we recognise the fact that many do not believe in Jesus Christ, or hold to only a nominal or partial faith in him, so we must, in obedience to Christ, try to bring them to know, love and serve the One whom we are privileged to know as Lord and Master, Saviour and Redeemer. The power of the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ must be seen in our lives so that, even if we say nothing in words, peoples of other faiths will be challenged by our lives, and surprised by our perseverance.
There are three vital factors here of which we need to take note:
A. THE GOSPEL FOR THE WHOLE WORLD
At the foot of the cross there is no favouritism. Living for Christ is living for others, for all others. It is service delivery; it is missionary; it is a total dedication and commitment to Christ and to obeying him. If as Christians we desire to bring others to Christ, to establish the reign of truth and righteousness in society and finally to attain everlasting life, then the only way to live is to surrender to Christ, to die to self and live to serve others. This kind of life will spark revival in the family, bring transformation in the community, and renewal wherever such a servant of Jesus Christ is found. The missionaries of old are great examples of this. No matter what the opposition, no matter how fearsome the juju (1) looked, no matter how entrenched the tradition, no matter what the cost might be, they continued undeterred, living and teaching in such a way that people of all faiths or none might see the transforming effect of the gospel. The gospel was lived before the eyes of the entire world, young and old, rich and poor, men and women, people of any and every race and tongue, tribe and nation. The gospel is for all and we must dare to reach out to all.
B. THE POWER OF THE GOSPEL
The gospel is powerful, as is demonstrated by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. By that single event we see the final defeat of Satan and all the powers of hell, of sin, of death and of evil. It is therefore no use at any point in life or time to submit or surrender to the devil because the devil and all his powers have been defeated by Jesus Christ. This is why the gospel is very powerful. However, we must note three things:
Here is the privilege and here is the cost of living in the power of the gospel.
C. THE ETERNAL EFFECT OF THE GOSPEL
The gospel calls for a decision that each person must make and such a decision will determine the eternal destination of that person. Such a decision, when made, must bring the believer’s life into conformity with the eternal truths of God, of his Son Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit. God’s word is truth, and every one of his righteous ordinances endures forever (Psalm 119:160).
Therefore anyone who receives and believes the gospel must speak the truth at all times, to all people, and must do so in love. To live in truth is also to insist on standing for justice for the oppressed and on giving justice to all people regardless of their race, religion, nationality or gender. It is significant that it is the gospel’s power that manifests God’s righteousness in us, and also empowers us to live righteous lives in such a manner that even unbelievers will acknowledge that righteousness is being practised by believers of the gospel. Those who do not believe the gospel understand very well when they see people practise righteousness and live in holiness.
To bear witness to the gospel in this way means dying to self and living for Christ. To live in this way is rewarding both here on earth and also eternally in heaven, whereas refusing to die to self has no reward on earth and no reward in heaven.
CONCLUSION
Those who carry the message of the gospel will not always be welcomed; there may be intimidation, humiliation and suffering. St. Paul knew all of these, but he refused to give up. He searched out people of all faiths: Jews, worshippers of pagan idols, and those who served an “unknown god”. Always, under all circumstances, his concern, his aim, his reason for living was to “press on” with this gospel (Philippians 3:12), the gospel which had so caught and transformed him, that he knew that no-one was beyond its power.
This is the power which has been given into our hands and into our hearts today. To bear witness
to the love of Christ with people of other faiths is not primarily a matter of academic debate, of round table discussion or even of media bombardment. It is simply living the gospel of Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit, day in and day out, in such a way that others see, are challenged, and are surprised.
This is so because whenever and wherever the gospel is truly lived, it MUST bring change in behaviour, etiquette and character; it must bring change in health, in the environment, in education and in the economy; it must bring progress and development to people and take the lead in community life and conduct for peace and justice. The Gospel alone has the capacity to draw people of every race, tribe and nationality to live in peace and to work together in harmony for the good of all. The gospel – if it truly is the gospel that is being proclaimed – will assuredly bring life, light and growth; because of the gospel, structures will be developed for the building of life together in communities and for the care of the environment; and at the same time, the power of the gospel will militate against all forms of dehumanization or degradation.
This is not something in which bishops and priests alone are to be involved! It is God’s call to all Christians, young and old, educated and illiterate, rich and poor – all are called to live transformed and transforming lives, captivated, enabled, and constantly spurred on by the power of the gospel. The road may seem rough, the results may sometimes seem small, but one day, maybe years later, a new day will dawn and someone will say: Yes, Christ was here! Let us too rise and follow!
© The Lausanne Movement 2010
Keywords: Gospel, power, salvation, righteousness, witness, change, transformed, faiths, cross, surrender
Benjamin Kwashi has not Contributed any other Resources entries. To see other content that Benjamin Kwashi has Contributed, click here
Views: 27087
Comments: 39
Recommendations: 3
Terms of Use | Privacy Policy | The Lausanne Global Conversation is powered by World Wide Open | What is World Wide Open?
Conversation Post Comment
Lesotho
Actions speak louder than words. Benjamin my brother, thank you for your elaboration on how by living a life completely surrendered to Christ, one can be a witness to the saving power of Christ to people of other faiths. The greatest challenge that I find in myself in particular, is how to remain focused under the conviction that Christ is all powerful and He has overcome the devil on my behalf all the time. I think that quite often, many of us dependent on own strength, and witness from that standpoint. As it were, it is not Christ at work in us, but ourselves doing things ‘for Him’ most of the time, apart from Him.
24.09.2010
United States
Thank you for the paper, Benjamin.
What came to my mind is to affirm what you said it is all of us that are called to do the work of the ministry: Ephesians 4:11-12 "And He Himself gave some to be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers, for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ,"
Jesus sent out the 12 they came back with issues :), in stead of training them more, Jesus sends out the 70 who had less training than the 12! God is gracious and compassionate!! He is using ordinary people to do extraordinary work - He is waiting for His kids to step out of the boat, die to self, what people will think, and do as Jesus taught us to do. We may fall, or see no results at first, but those who persist and perservere will see the Kingdom Advance in ways that the world has never seen!!
We owe the world an encounter with God. In Mozambique Muslims Mosques have been given to Christians as whole villages got saved at once becaue everyone knows the blind and deaf and when they see and hear, all know who’s God is God.
We are in pursuit of the King and His Kingdom!!
much love
Marguerite
23.09.2010
Nigeria
@ Marguerite_Evans:
Marguerite, Your comment was refreshing and challenging. God indeed is looking for risk-takers.
23.09.2010
Netherlands
The power of the Gospel to transform life, heal and deliver is key to witnessing to people of other faith. This is because the issue of power is central to many non-Christian religion. Power to manipulate people, power to manipulate the unseen world, power to live a fruitful life etc. The real power for life is in the name of Jesus Christ. If and when we can demonstrate the power of the Gospel in our own transformed life, in addressing the needs of the people in love, it will open doors for us to share the saving grace of Christ. One of the questions that I will like to see discuss is how can Chrsitian obtain and live in and demonstrate the power of the Gospel for meeting the needs of our broken world.
22.09.2010
United Kingdom
Thank you for this paper. It might be helpful to have some more examples/practical help given to us, but equally i found your approach really added great clarity to the subject for me.
21.09.2010
Jamaica
While reading “Bearing witness to the love of Christ with people of other faiths” by Benjamin Kwashi I had this visual of the Bible being held in hand in an owning and declarative way suggesting that this is what I believe; this Word of God is what I stake my life upon and it is not my place to force anyone to accept it. What is my responsibility is to represent it by the way I live my life, tell others how it affects and directs my life and how it can do the same for them AND leave the rest to its own efficacy and power to make the change in them. The Word of God will do its work - to save or to judge so I don’t have to take a dogmatic position or start a fight over the matter. I can, instead, choose to live peaceably with you, whether you believe what I do or not, and trust God to work it through once I have borne His word well (been a good witness)!!
I like the passage Kwashi uses and the sub-themes he unearths from the passage – “The gospel for the whole world,” The power of the gospel,” and “The eternal effect of the gospel.” I would love to see each of these developed some more and the link made, using research, as to how specific people groups may be reached. The participant from a predominantly Islamic or Hindu or Secularist culture should be able to walk away with specific pointers on how this approach can impact these cultures.
17.09.2010
Brazil
Your introductory paragraph is powerful and reminds me that no one, no more how opposed to the Gospel and entrenched in his/her view, is too far from the power of the Gospel.
In your second paragraph, the last phrase "of the environment" seems either to need more elaboration or changed to "of social/environment stewardship". I know creation care is a current hot topic, but please consider a broader category for such a powerful opening.
I look forward to hearing the paper’s final delivery.
15.09.2010
Ghana
Thank you, Bishop Kwashi, for illuminating Rom. 1:16. You refreshed me with your insights about the necessity of reaching followers of other faiths. Some practical advice about how to do that would be appreciated. God bless you!
13.09.2010
Brunei Darussalam
Bishop Kwashi points out that a vital starting point to being an effective witness to people of other faiths is that the "power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ must (first)be seen in our lives".
However, there is also the need at some point for "proclamation", and sharing intentionally the Gospel, and this is where an appropriate understanding of the "other Faiths" as well as our own Christian Faith, discernment, sensitivity are also important. Ultimately it is the province and work of the Holy Spirit that convicts individual to Belief and Repentance. Here I recall the many instances of miraculous conversions through dreams and revelations.That is why we need to pray for those we are reaching out too that the Holy Spirit will do its preparatory work in their hearts, as we do our part
12.09.2010
Nigeria
Bishop Kwashi has summarized evangelism, interaction with people of other faith, poverty, the environment and a whole host of other issues that will be discussed in Cape Town in this simple statement in his conclusion: “. . . whenever and wherever the gospel is truly lived, it MUST bring change in behaviour, etiquette and character; it must bring change in health, in the environment, in education and in the economy; it must bring progress and development to people and take the lead in community life and conduct for peace and justice.” It is not more evangelism schemes or workshops to improve our preaching that are needed. It is simply the true living out our faith. Lead on, Bishop. We will try to follow.
09.09.2010
Zimbabwe
Thank you for that advance paper it has reminded me of the contents of the Lausanne Covenant and how important it is for us to reflect the Talk we share with people of other Faiths. The reminder is so timely that when you are hard pressed in a society that you cant say the Word you have to show it in life style.
Just like what Romans2vs24 says "The name of the Lord is blasphemed among the Gentiles because of you."
Should we allow this to happen among those who are of a different faith or as a family we are going to choose to reflect Christ despite our circumstance and position? Its time to be true salt and light to the dying world.
Be blessed
09.09.2010
Argentina
Muchas gracias por esta presentación, exhortación y llamado a que el Evangelio de nuestro Señor Jesucristo debe ser visto en nuestras vidas, la perseverancia, diligencia, no dejar lugar a la pereza, egoísmo, infidelidad, que se viva con consistencia hacia todos, palabra y obra
07.09.2010
United States
Thank you brother for a simple explanaton of a simple truth of a simple gospel for all mankind. The Gospel truly is the Power of God...and we need that power to help others see our Master as Saviour and King.
16.08.2010
Zimbabwe
Thank you for that document. It contains the changes that can be imenent and seen in society if all those who call on the name of the LORD are in right standing with Him and each other.
The inclusion of how positive our society can be is encouraging to one who was looking at it all and say with in that there is no more hope. This text then weaves with Colosians 1 vs 27b "Christ in you the HOPE of glory"
Thanks for a job weldone
15.08.2010
Singapore
Thank you for your perspectives. I was particularly blessed by you comments that the gospel isn’t only about a decision towards salvation, but also "whenever and wherever the gospel is truly lived, it MUST bring change in behaviour, etiquette and character; it must bring change in health, in the environment, in education and in the economy; it must bring progress and development to people and take the lead in community life and conduct for peace and justice." Perhaps you could help elaborate a little more explicitly with more examples of what that aspect of the gospel looks like, ie: the good news of God’s kingdom and His work of redemption in all spheres of life for all nations, and how we’re privileged to be part of living out that aspect of the gospel.
10.08.2010
Nigeria
I commend his grace for his role in living out this paper and for putting it in print for discussion. However, following his example, I suggest that in this statement "As we recognise the fact that many do not believe in Jesus Christ, or hold to only a nominal or partial faith in him, so we must, in obedience to Christ, try to bring them to know, love and serve the One whom we are privileged to know as Lord and Master, Saviour and Redeemer", the word "try" should be replaced with something stronger. "Strive" may be better.
Secondly; it seems to me as if the recognition (in the conclusion) that bishop’s and priests alone cannot complete the task should be accompanied with a clarion call to mobilize (train and equip) the whole church to carry the whole gospel to the whole world. Thanks again your grace.
02.08.2010
You must be logged in to post a comment. If you don’t have an account, you can sign up now (it’s free and easy!).