Based on Deuteronomy 4:5–8 (NIV)
It is said that Gandhi was asked how Christianity might become part of the national life of India. Gandhi responded:
First, I would suggest all of you Christians must begin to live more like Jesus Christ.
As Moses prepares to receive the ten commandments, God says: ‘Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession… a kingdom of priests and a holy nation’ (Exodus 19:5–6).
God’s people were not chosen because they were better than others, nor special in themselves. They were chosen to know God and represent him to the world. They were to live in the world and before the world in such a way that they would show what God was like and commend him to the nations.
This has always been God’s way. His love and blessings are to be shared and multiplied. Key to fulfilling that purpose is obedience, demonstrating what it means to live in relationship with God.
Most adults who become Christians begin their journey to faith by observing someone whose life has been changed for the better by knowing Jesus. Thus, when God’s people fail to live in God’s way, they not only spoil their relationship with God but also compromise God’s mission.
The behaviour of the church and individual Christians can undoubtedly be a barrier for many people searching for God.
By Stephen Rand
Chimi Kyo 