he Word in the World: God's Influence in History
Since the dawn of time, the Word of God has been a constant force, shaping the course of human history. From the Garden of Eden, where the first words were spoken to Adam and Eve, to the oral traditions passed down through generations, the Word has been more than just text—it's been a living, breathing influence. This Word, later transcribed by Moses and compiled by prophets, became what we now know as the Old Testament. With the arrival of Jesus Christ, the New Testament was born, and together, these Scriptures have become the foundation of Christian faith.
The Bible is not just a historical document; it’s a roadmap that has guided nations and individuals alike. The Law given to Israel was not just a set of rules—it was a tutor pointing toward Christ, a civil code that governed a newborn nation, and a moral compass that revealed the human condition. When Israel obeyed, peace and prosperity followed. When they disobeyed, destruction was inevitable. This pattern continued with the New Testament, where the sacrifice of Christ not only fulfilled the Law but also established a new covenant for the Church. This new covenant, unlike the old, offered a universal code of conduct, a righteousness in Christ that brings life to those who believe and bondage to those who don’t.
The impact of God’s Word is immeasurable. It has influenced cultures, shaped laws, and guided the lives of countless believers. From Adam onward, people have experienced the dual nature of God's Word—its cutting judgment and its curative power. This Word is life to those who obey and death to those who reject it. This dynamic continues today, where the Church grows through the proclamation of this Word, spreading its influence to the ends of the Earth.
Breaking Barriers: Confronting Prejudice with the Gospel
Prejudice is a persistent barrier in society, one that divides, alienates, and fosters ignorance. From a Christian perspective, overcoming prejudice is essential to living in the fullness of faith and promoting the Gospel. A well-considered approach to confronting prejudice is found in Diane Cole’s essay Don’t Just Stand There, where she argues that while prejudiced statements are unsettling, they must be confronted to effect change in society. Cole suggests that "speaking up" and "responding effectively" can potentially alter people’s behavior and provide a sense of consolation to those affected by such slurs. This approach involves first seeking clarification from the offender, then engaging in a dialogue that can reveal underlying stereotypes and misconceptions, and finally, informing the offender of the harm caused.
To illustrate the real-world implications of this approach, let’s consider a hypothetical scenario: Dr. Amrita, an accomplished Indian surgeon in Toronto, encounters racial prejudice while waiting at a gas station. A young man, mistaking her for a store clerk, makes an offhand comment based on his preconceived notions. This situation is emblematic of the casual racism that many people of color experience daily—a racism that perpetuates stereotypes and deepens societal divisions.
From a Christian perspective, it is crucial to respond to such incidents in a way that opens the door for understanding and reconciliation. By following Cole’s approach, Dr. Amrita could ask the young man why he made the assumption, opening a dialogue that challenges his stereotypes and promotes a deeper understanding. This process is not just about defending oneself; it’s about breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for the Gospel to be shared, unencumbered by prejudice.
The Bible teaches that Christians should guard their hearts against offense (Hebrews 12:15), as offense can alienate believers from the grace of God and hinder their faith. In this light, Cole’s method of confronting prejudice respectfully and thoughtfully aligns with biblical principles, providing a practical framework for believers to engage with the world in a way that reflects the love of Christ.
Spirits: A Personal Encounter with the Holy Spirit
My own journey with faith has been a series of encounters that have shaped who I am today. One of the most profound experiences occurred in the cool breeze of a misty night in Lima, Peru. I had been living a life that was far from what I knew was right—drinking, partying, and ignoring the call of God on my life. But that night, something changed.
A missionary named Azaria Girma, a dark-skinned, leather-clad Ethiopian with a saintly presence, had been persistently praying for me to receive the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Up until that night, nothing had happened. I was skeptical, losing faith that anything would. But as we sat in my Miraflores apartment, something shifted. As Azaria prayed, I felt a tingling heat spread from his hand on my back, creeping over my neck and around my head. It was a sensation I couldn’t ignore, and as I began to speak in tongues, I knew—this was real. This was the Holy Spirit.
That night marked a turning point in my life. I went from being bound by the flesh to being free in the Spirit. The carnal life I had been living was replaced by a deep connection with God, one that I continue to nurture to this day. The power of the Holy Spirit is not something to be taken lightly; it’s transformative, life-changing, and undeniable.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey
The journey of faith is one of constant growth and transformation. Whether it’s understanding the historical impact of God’s Word, confronting prejudice with the Gospel, or experiencing the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit, each step brings us closer to the fullness of life that God intends for us. As we continue on this path, may we remain open to the lessons that each experience teaches, and may we be bold in living out our faith in a world that desperately needs the truth.