The gospel is not separate from culture, but neither is it defined by it
When I moved to India 13 years ago, I had a lot to learn about Indian culture. I didn’t understand why people called others ‘bhaiya’ or ‘didi’ even though they weren’t related, or what someone meant when they wobbled their head.
Understanding the culture of a place is crucial if you want to connect with people; Paul understood this well.
In Thessalonica and Berea, we see two reactions to the gospel: resistance and inquiry. Some become angry, while others begin to examine the Scriptures themselves daily to see if what Paul says is true (Acts 17).
Then Paul arrives in Athens, a centre of philosophy and culture. Everywhere he sees altars and statues. His mind is stimulated. But he does not react with contempt. He engages in conversation.
On the Areopagus, he speaks of the “unknown God” whom they worship. He aligns with their worldview, even quoting their poets, but does not deviate from the core: God is Creator, not an image.
He calls people to repentance because God has established a day of judgment through the Man whom He raised from the dead.
The resurrection remains the breaking point. Some mock. Others want to hear more. And a few come to faith.
Acts 17 shows that the gospel is not separate from culture, but neither is it defined by it. It requires wisdom to connect—without diluting the message.
We, too, live in a culture full of ideas and beliefs. The question is: are we aware of this? And do we dare to remain clear about Jesus?
Witnessing about Jesus goes better when you know what you are talking about. Do you regularly read and study the Bible yourself?
And do you know the culture around you well enough to share the gospel in an understandable way?
Let’s pray:
Heavenly Father, help me to bear witness about You in a world full of seekers. Help me to lovingly build a bridge between cultural beliefs and faith in You. In Jesus’ name, amen.
