All of us are influenced by other people, events, incidents and many other things. It may have had positive or not so promising impact upon our lives. But the truth of the matter is that a person can be impacted and effected (stimulated and provoked) by the actions and input of others and what happens around him/her in the community. To a great extent, people are shaped by their environment and culture. We all are the products of the society in which we were born and raised.
The Christian is a person shaped by the power and presence of Jesus Christ to be a positive influence in this fallen world and among the depraved humanity. Are we becoming a stronger force of influence to maximise the power and presence of Christ? How can we be men and women of influence, and bring real transformation and progress in a corrupted world?
- The Challenge. ( Romans 1:21-32; 2 Timothy 3:1-9)The effect of sin in our world is increasingly alarming. The threat from satanic forces through various human and “religious” organisations is at a heightened level. The negative and destructive influence of various cult groups and extremists have manipulated thousands of young people to do acts of terror and disturb peace and order in cities and nations. The moral, ethical and family values in the communities of the world has eroded and reached to the lowest degree ever. We are desperately in need of a positive and healthy influence to help people and nations to make a U Turn towards biblical values and standards.
- The Model. (John 1:10-18; Acts 4:13) Jesus Christ is the greatest Influencer ever! He has manifested unconditional love and abundance of grace that has impacted (and still does) millions of people in the world. No one remains the same after meeting Jesus. The transformation and the change of total personality was visible in the people who were brought in contact with the Saviour of the world. Paul wrote, “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 2:5).
- The Mission. (1 Peter 2:11, 12; 3:1, 2; Philippians 2:14, 15). What we lack in the fallen world and corrupted communities is men and women who are role models and positive and healthy influences. We haven’t enough lights and salt to brighten the places and preserve from the decaying condition. The believer in Christ is a person with a mission – that is to influence those in darkness and bring them to light; those that are dying in sin to be brought to life in Christ; and stimulate hope and healing in a broken world by their walk and witness in Christ.
How do we maximise our Influence?
- By being available to meet and minister to people at the point of their need.
- By extending our friendship circle in your community.
- By getting involved in the ministry opportunities in your local church and other places where you may be able to help.
- By praying regularly for people in your neighbourhood or work places etc and offering them prayers and support when they are in need.
- By being a role model to others who may be in confusion and are hopeless.
- By using the social media and impacting the multitudes by offering positive and character forming biblical principles and practical guidelines.
May we maximise our influence in this messy world and provoke people to pursue the Saviour and eternal life?
God bless you.
Pastor Joe Kurian
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