Read: Acts 16:1–5
Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him; and he took him and had him circumcised because of the Jews who were in those places, for they all knew that his father was a Greek. Acts 16:3
This seems to be a rather inconsistent choice, when viewed in relationship to the agreement that Gentiles did not need to become circumcised to join the faith. Paul, who championed inclusion of Gentiles without circumcision, had Timothy undergo that very procedure. Why? Had the mission changed? No. To win Jews to the faith, you must become like a Jew. That was Paul’s personal conviction about faith leaders. To win people to Christ, you need to become like them. While there are certainly exceptions, as well as lengths to which a person of faith should not go to connect with others, the general rule is sound. In fact, God demonstrated a similar willingness in Jesus Christ. To win us, God took on our corruptible human form and dwelled with us in all our sin and brokenness. Fitting in can be an important step toward sharing faith.
What lengths would you go to, to share your faith with others?
Lord, I cannot imagine undergoing a painful surgery in order to more effectively share my faith with others. My faith is as private as my genitalia. Why? Please help me to answer this question. Help me to know why I remain silent about You. Help me to change. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.