January 14, 2026
— Lesslie Newbigin · Source: Sin and Salvation (SCM Press, 1956), ch. V, "The Preparation for Salvation"
Colossians 4:6 Always keep your speech tempered with salt, so that you may know how to answer each person.
In my studies of cross-cultural issues and Islamic faith, I easily misunderstand "upholding the truth" as "keeping my distance," and even unconsciously adopt a superior position. Newbigin reminds me that God has not chosen us as witnesses because we are superior to others, but in order to create through us a new humanity in which the divisions caused by sin are overcome. If I truly believe that Christ is the truth, I don't need to rush to prove myself, but can use gentleness, patience, and respect to allow the gospel to be heard in relationships.
Lord, cleanse me of the pride and defensiveness hidden within me, so that in cross-cultural interactions I may approach others not through pressure, but through love, not through oppression. Grant me a teachable heart, quiet ears, and words tempered by Your will. Let me neither compromise with Your truth nor lose the gentleness of Christ, so that my life may be a testimony to Your grace. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.