How Christianity Differed in Its Moral Rules from the Traditions

the Batak tribe children.
picture taken from: survivalinternational.org

When pioneer missionary Ludwig Nommensen began his work among the Batak tribes of Southeast Asia, a village chief gave him two years to learn the customs and to convince them that he had a message worth hearing. At the end of that time he was asked how Christianity differed in its moral rules from the traditions of the Batak.

“We know what is right,” said the tribal leader, “for we too have laws that say we must not steal, or take our neighbor’s wives, or tell lies.”

“That’s true,” the missionary answered, “but my Master supplies the power needed to keep these laws,”

The chief startled. “Can you really teach my people to live better?” he inquired.

“No, I can’t, but if they receive Jesus Christ, God will give them the strength to do what’s right.”

Being permitted to remain another six months, Nommensen preached the gospel and taught the villagers how the Holy Spirit works in the believer’s life. At the end of that time the chief said, “You may stay longer. Your religion is better than ours, for your God walks with men and gives them strength to do the good things He requires.”

This is true! The Holy Spirit works in the believer’s life. The Holy Spirit, the Spirit of Christ, empowers obedience for us to live right and to do what’s right according to His eternal Word. This is what God means when He said that: "I will put My Spirit in you so that you will follow my decrees and be careful to obey my regulations" (Ezekiel 36:27, NLT).  Through His Spirit in us, God walks with us and gives us strength to do the good things He requires – mainly – His holy commandments. This unique abiding-Spirit-in-us is what makes Christianity differ in its moral rules from all the traditions of the world.

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.