When we think about the transformative power of the gospel, we often picture it as a universal truth that transcends all cultures and contexts. However, Chapter 1 of “The 3D Gospel” by Jayson Georges introduces us to the idea that while the gospel is indeed universal, its expression and impact can vary greatly across different cultural landscapes.
Take the story of Gulzel, a young university student from Central Asia who embraced Christianity with a sincere heart. Her journey of faith began with the traditional message that many of us are familiar with: “Your transgressions separate you from God; therefore you deserve punishment. Jesus died for your sin. Believe in him, and your sins will be forgiven.” This message of forgiveness and reconciliation resonated deeply with her, offering a sense of peace and new life in Christ.
Yet, Gulzel’s cultural context presented challenges that this standard message of forgiveness alone could not fully address. One poignant incident highlights the complexity of her situation. Returning from her mother’s village one Sunday evening, Gulzel found herself in a taxi with a male driver and three male passengers. What started as an ordinary ride quickly turned uncomfortable as the men began propositioning her and invited her to their homes for tea. Their behavior escalated when they stopped for vodka shots and became physically aggressive.
In that moment of fear and vulnerability, Gulzel’s primary concern was not just personal safety but also the potential shame and dishonor that could befall her family if her plight were exposed. Even when she saw her uncle driving in the opposite direction, her instinct was to hide, driven by the desire to avoid bringing shame upon her family.
This narrative reveals the intricate layers of guilt, shame, and fear that coexist in many cultures. For Gulzel, forgiveness of sins addressed her guilt before God, but it did not fully encompass her need for honor and protection from fear. The gospel, therefore, must be presented in a way that speaks to all these dimensions of human experience.
The 3D Gospel framework posits that different cultures respond to the gospel through three primary lenses: guilt-innocence, shame-honor, and fear-power. Western cultures, which are largely individualistic, often emphasize guilt and forgiveness. In contrast, many Eastern cultures are collectivistic, placing a high value on honor and shame. Meanwhile, animistic and tribal cultures often focus on power dynamics and fear of the spiritual realm.
For missionaries and those engaged in cross-cultural ministry, this means that effective gospel communication must go beyond a one-dimensional message. It requires a deep understanding of the cultural context and a holistic approach that addresses guilt, restores honor, and dispels fear.
The story of Gulzel is a powerful reminder that the gospel is multifaceted and must be contextualized to meet the diverse needs of people from different cultural backgrounds. As we seek to share the good news of Jesus Christ, let us be mindful of these cultural nuances and strive to present a gospel that is truly transformative in every dimension of human life.
Conclusion
Chapter 1 of “The 3D Gospel” challenges us to broaden our understanding of how the gospel speaks to people around the world. By recognizing the different cultural dimensions of guilt, shame, and fear, we can more effectively communicate the richness of God’s salvation and meet people where they are. In doing so, we fulfill the call to make disciples of all nations, bringing the fullness of Christ’s redemption to every corner of the globe.
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