christians-- witness for the lord

[Chaigidel]

I dont know the passage but I hear it called up alot, I here it referenced by people as the reason why they feel the need to do mission work and preach about the love they may have for jesus...


I have some arcane views on this aspect of jesus and the sacrifice and the purpose of the Redeemer, which i will share after some of you have contributed your thoughts on what it means to Witness for the Lord--- non religious peoples feel free to comment if you have anything to contribute to the psychological aspect of the concept of the "saviour" and preaching in general.---

[Earl of Rochester]

well the "psychological aspect of the concept of the "saviour"" is really almost a necessity for modern man, and by that I mean post agricultural revolution.

Ever since then man has been miserable and needed a savior to preach of a better life. Of course this better life only comes when the miserable one is over.

[Chaigidel]

but I really would like to know how some devout christians feel of all aspects because im curious if it is just a usa protestant thing

[GershomPatmos]

Most "protestants" I know (and I presume this may apply to Catholics and Orthodox as well) go by this simple statement usually:

At all times 'preach' the Gospel, and when necessary - use words.

It's a call for a Christian to "practice" what he/she preaches, and for their life to be the first "witness" of/for Jesus Christ - then let the rest "fall into place." Most of the time though you hear about missionaries who feel "called" into their work, and so people begin to immediately associate a stringent literalness for "preaching the Gospel," especially when persecution could arise from speaking certain words. Most don't realize though that those who are missionaries are usually "living" the Gospel around the clock, and their words only make up a portion of what they do as believers. I have many friends (who are missionaries) who help with physical labor, gathering food, various programs - all besides a literal preaching by words. Any person who tells you (or anyone else) that they are "preaching" out of their "love" for Jesus - should always be backing it up by showing true love to their "neighbor" (as love comes by action, not simply by words). So for me, when I hear somebody say that they desire to show another the "love of Jesus" - I hear a lot more they're saying they wish to show than just words. So perhaps your question might also be worded: "why would anyone want to show love and care for another person?" The answer is obvious I believe - from a Christian perspective, and even a non-religious one. Even atheists could agree usually with a basic intent of helping their fellow person, but I believe that missionaries, etc. go the "extra step" in that they yearn to do so as God puts it in their heart and being...almost like a spouse - something which "completes" them through the love they're able to share and give, all enabled by Jesus Christ' love.

hope that helps.

later friend,
Gersh

[Chaigidel]

yeah very interesting---

[Zenith Darksea]

Yes Gersh, that was an extremely Orthodox quote you gave. Another interesting statement is what the Orthodox St Seraphim of Sarov said:

"Acquire the gift of the Holy Spirit for yourself and a thousand people around you will be saved."

[Thanatos]

Well, of course all Christians feel an urge to witness for the Lord, for faith without works is dead.

[Calvin]

As far as I am concerned, being a 'witness for the Lord' is simply living my life following the example of Jesus Christ as the Holy Spirit empowers me to do so. To show love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance. To love my neighbour as myself. To never condemn or judge anyone, for I myself am as bad a sinner as they.

Preaching is simply making the good news known throughout the world, or teaching Christians. Being a witness is living ones life the way God intended.

Andy