Non Christians want to know if the gospel we proclaim is true and meaningful. People are seeking an anchor for their lives—something that will not move, decay or change. They are looking for something worthy of their trust. One skeptic and critic chides the Church:
The world expects of Christians that they will raise their voices so loudly and clearly…that not even the simplest man can have the slightest doubt about what they are saying. Further, the world expects of Christians that they will eschew all fuzzy abstractions and plant themselves squarely in front of the bloody face of history. We stand in need of folk who have determined to speak directly and unmistakably and, come what may, to stand by what they have said (Albert Camus).
The world wants to know if we take the gospel seriously. They want to know if the gospel is able to provide the meaning they long for.
Our confidence in the gospel will build confidence in those who follow our lead. Paul adds, Also, as a result of my chains, most of the brethren have confidence in the Lord, so that they have far more courage to speak the gospel without fear (1:14, author’s translation). Christians are to know that the cause of Christ is worth pursuing and proclaiming—whatever the adversity (cf. Romans 8:31 39). Such conviction will dissolve the doubts of those who question the gospel’s power.
Who follows in our footsteps? Friends, workmates, spouses, children, Christian brothers and sisters. Each of us is in a singular place to influence someone else’s life. What kind of influence will it be? We can demonstrate a life anchored on the Solid Rock, Christ Jesus. Or we can give in to the whims of hardship. When the gospel is our central concern, we will be focused. We will have meaning in life and we will show others how to have meaningful lives.
Another excerpt from my book, Destroying Our Private Cities, Building Our Spiritual Life
, a lay commentary on Paul’s Letter to the Philippians. Enjoy a taste with a free downloadable chapter, “Putting Jesus Back into Our Potential (Phil 2:1-11).”
Posted by Chip Anderson at 04:13 AM. Filed under: Habits of the Mind •
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