Tracy's thoughts

Sorry man,
I've seen the movie but can't remember enough to comment on the intentions of the characters. The cynic in me would say that in a business context especially, agenda's are obviously present. But in this case, christian ethics are being amplified to contrast another approach to "closing the deal"? I can't remember.

Courtney,

Have you seen the movie "The Big Kahuna?" I've got to believe you have. If so, it seems like you would categorize the younger main character as a "salesman" for Christ. Yes? No? Do you think he really cares for the big exec with which he converses or has an agenda only?

Tracy

I think the conflict Tracy refers to is one that is reflected by a society that largely distrusts service that is perceived to be supported by agenda. For instance, a believer who pursues service in order to covert the non-believer as the endgame. Is that honest and authentic? I don't think so, and I would go so far as to say that to think you are doing right by christ, in this day and age, is socially, and biblically irresponsible. The Gospel should be what propels us. But the enacted, dynamic empathy between two human beings should be the Christ-like attribute we seek to emulate. NOT service to talk about Christ in order to "save" them. Real conversions are a result of empathy and a relational community. To be effective in our culture we must seek empathy for others first. Maybe even first and only- in order to remain disinterested (without agenda). Otherwise we are being dishonest. We are salesmen for Christ, showing up masking our intentions with good behavior.
Karen states "When we are willing to reach out and share Gods word with our friends and neighbors we are showing His love. The conversions are a result of this sharing." There is a lot to address in this statement but I will say briefly that when we are willing to reach out to our friends and neighbors and BE friends and neighbors and love them, listen, and put ourselves in their place- then an d only then can an authentic relationship with Christ be revealed. That is the true witness. Words are not magic. Christ as the living word is active and dynamic. That means we have to ACT like Christ, not just use his words. "To Act" means that there is a dynamic, physical event taking place. But the trick is to do it without agenda- except to love and love in all that entails. No judgment, no agenda.

I strongly beleive that for me I serve my neighbors and community, because I am converted. For me this feels more comfortable. Before I was saved, I was open to different beliefs, always knowing that there was a God, a higher power a supreme being and only after learning about Gods plan for me and that Jesus died on the cross for me did I come to know the real God and became saved.

Before I was saved, if someone came to my door, or tried to preach to me, my natural instinct was to put up walls. So for me I try to live as Christ would, and by showing love and forgiveness I hope that people will come to know Christ.

We serve as God's instruments. When we are willing to reach out and share Gods word with our friends and neighbors we are showing His love. The conversions are a result of this sharing. God alone converts through His Holy Spirit. If we show Gods love by genuinely loving Him , He will instill His love for others in our hearts. 'lest any man shall boast'.

Tracy,
Great questions and thoughts! Definitely want to find that balance. Thanks for encouraging us with these ideas.