City Life Starter

19 Even though I am a free man with no master, I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ. 20 When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law. 21 When I am with the Gentiles who do not follow the Jewish law, I too live apart from that law so I can bring them to Christ. But I do not ignore the law of God; I obey the law of Christ.

22 When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. 23 I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings. –1 Corinthians 9:19-23

II. Aisha’s Analysis

The above verses reveal the purpose underlying Paul’s attempts to build relationships with others. Let’s zoom in on verses 22-23. Here, Paul says he tries to find common ground with everyone, doing everything he can to save some. In verse 23, Paul states he does everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings.

Based on the scriptures above, it is clear to me that unity and diversity blossoms out of humanity’s common need for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It is only by embracing the Truth of Jesus Christ that people of all kinds of different backgrounds can unite in peace and harmony.

It is no wonder that Paul, a “Pharisee of Pharisees” who murdered Christians and likely did not associate with Gentiles, wrote the verses above after he was transformed by the good news of Jesus Christ. How can it be that someone who was once filled with so much pride and hatred towards God’s people now say with all sincerity “I have become a slave to all people to bring many to Christ.”?

Do you see the keywords there?  “To bring many to Christ.” Trying to build bridges with people and serve them is hopeless unless those actions are driven and fueled by a worthy cause: to bring many to Christ.

On the heated issue of racism, I’ve heard it said that racism is not a “skin problem,” it’s a “sin problem.” Racism stems from the sin of pride and deception. Some people don’t even know they are racist until they encounter Jesus.

For those who have adopted racist mindsets and for those who have experienced the painful division and derision of racism, the same truth applies. Only Jesus can set you free.

III. Application

Do you struggle with negative feelings towards certain groups of people? Make a change a change today. If you are a believer and have given your life to Jesus Christ, allow Him to direct your path and your relationships. Think of 5 people of a different race or background whom you can reach out to. Don’t try to preach a sermon to these 5 people right away, but simply build a bridge. Pay someone a compliment or invite another out to lunch. Whatever you do, do it with the express purpose of bringing that person to Christ.

On the flip side, have you experienced the pain of rejection and discrimination by a certain people group? Don’t let this fester inside you any longer. Offer your forgiveness to that person/the entire people group. Remember racism is a sin-problem. In the same way that God has forgiven you of all your sin by Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection, you are now empowered to forgive others. Let God be your defender and try to extend kindness and grace to that person/people group.

IV. Prayer

Father God, I thank You for being such a masterful Artist and creating such a beautiful family. You’re not limited by anything. In Your wisdom and creativity, You created a diverse world and I agree that what You have created is good. Lord, please connect me with whomever You wish so that I might bring many to Christ. In Jesus Name, Amen.