As Christians, we are called to bear witness of our Lord to the world (Acts 1:8). But in today’s pluralistic world, such duty has become increasingly difficult. Nevertheless, the principles Paul laid out at the end of Colossians is still valid in our effort to make disciples for our Lord.
First, spreading the gospel is God’s work. Paul asks Colossians to pray for him, so that “God may open a door for our message” (Col 4:3). Without the Father attracting people, no one can come before God (Jn 6:44). Such understanding is not only humbling but, more importantly, it’s also comforting. It’s humbling because God is the one who controls the timing and creates opportunity, and without those all our efforts will be in vain. We can speak with the greatest wisdom and most eloquent words, but God alone holds the key to the door of the heart. It’s also comforting because we need not be discouraged by our seemingly failure in leading our family and loved ones to the Lord. As long as it’s God’s will, they will receive him one day.
Second, we need to be prepared when the door is opened. This means for us to speak clearly about our belief (Col 4:4), which implies that we need to know what we believe and in whom we believe. Overemphasis on biblical knowledge can breed arrogance (1Cor 8:1), but being ignorant about our faith is equally detrimental, if not worse, to the spreading of the gospel. Being prepared also means speaking with grace (Col 4:6). It is indeed important for us to remember that we are simply witnesses of the savior, not the savior himself. We should always point people away from us and to the cross. But on the other hand, we cannot avoid the responsibility that comes with being a true witness of the Lord who is full of grace. When it comes to telling the gospel, the messenger IS the message. People cannot see the Lord, but they can surely see us. Finally, being prepared also means to make our message interesting and engaging, like adding salt to tasteless food. A lifeless speech will have a tough time to convince people about a message of life. It’s as simple as that.
So, be prepared whether it’s in season or out of season. God is the one who opens the door, and we just need to make sure we enter with confidence when it’s opened.
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