Predigt Vom 19.03.2023 Stefan Winkler - Treue

In this narrative, the author delves into the rich tapestry of life and the grace that has been bestowed upon them over the years. They humbly express their gratitude for the privilege of not only being grandparents in Germany but also in the vibrant, diverse land of India. What's more, this tale unfolds to reveal the remarkable journey of over 100 young souls, emerging from the most humble backgrounds, who have now grown into families of their own. These young men and women, devout Christians, continue to walk the path of faith with unwavering commitment and fervor.

The authors paint a vivid picture of their contribution to society through the establishment of a Christian school associated with their children's home and another school in Utroula. The latter serves as a beacon of education, where over a thousand children from various social strata and religious backgrounds come together to learn and grow. The authors view these educational endeavors as a tremendous opportunity to make a positive impact on the local population.

The narrative subtly shifts its focus to the winds of change blowing across India and the pressing need for faithfulness and the fruits of the spirit. Among these qualities, the concept of 'treue' emerges as a prominent theme. In Greek, 'treue' is often translated as faith, but it encompasses a broader spectrum, encapsulating trust, reliability, integrity, obedience, and more. The author seeks to unravel the layers of faithfulness and emphasizes the significance of translating it into practical action.

The narrative skillfully weaves the narrative thread through the tapestry of the Bible, drawing inspiration from the example set by Jesus Christ in the book of Philippians 2. Jesus, who descended from the glory of God, remained faithful to his mission, even unto the cross. This, the author posits, serves as a tangible model for the faithfulness that God expects from His followers.

Alas, our narrative remains incomplete, for it leaves us yearning for a conclusion that would tie together these intricate threads of faith and devotion.

Persevering in the Face of Challenges: The Resilience of Indian Christians

In this section, the speaker shifts the spotlight to the challenges confronting Christians in India. The Indian government has enacted laws that restrict conversion to Christianity, and there have been reports of pastors being allegedly incarcerated for allegedly coaxing Christians to alter their faith. Nevertheless, the speaker resolutely underscores that Christians are not crafted by human hands but by the divine touch of the Holy Spirit. The decision to embrace Christianity is deeply personal and spiritual.

The narrative finds grounding in the Bible, referencing Romans 8, which affirms that the spirit of Jesus resides within a Christian, breathing life into them. The narrative rebuffs the notion that water baptism is the pivotal step in becoming a Christian, asserting instead that it is the gift of the Holy Spirit that holds that distinction.

Turning the pages of the Bible, the speaker leads us to the Book of Acts, where Peter and John appear before the Sanhedrin and are questioned about healing in Jesus's name. Their unwavering response affirms that they cannot help but speak of what they have witnessed and heard. The Christian community unites in prayer, beseeching God for courage and strength to stand firm in their faith and continue to manifest signs and wonders.

The speaker emphasizes the essence of faithfulness amidst adversity, drawing parallels to the saga of Abraham, who heeded God's call. Hebrews 11 in the Bible encapsulates the story, accentuating the profound faith and obedience of Abraham. He embarked on a journey, leaving behind his homeland with no certainty of the destination, choosing to live as a stranger in a promised land, dwelling in tents with Isaac and Jacob. Despite the uncertainty, he anticipated the city that God would build. The narrative underscores Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac, his unshakeable belief that God could raise the dead.

The speaker interlaces these Biblical tales with a touch of their own personal journey. From a soldier stationed in North Germany to a transformative conversion to Christianity, they wove a path that led to a Welsh Bible school. It was during a morning devotion in the park that divine guidance beckoned them to a specific land – India. The narratives breathe life into the significance of prayer and the patience to wait for God's guidance and confirmation.

Persecution and the Triumph of Faith

In the final segment, the speaker unfurls a harrowing tale of a man held in custody for over 24 hours, pressured by the police to testify that a hospital attempted to convert him to Christianity. The man's wife has filed a report and fled from the police. Reports trickle in about new charges being filed, seemingly designed to intimidate Christians. However, these resilient souls remain resolute in their commitment to share the love of Christ with those in need.

The narrative takes us back to a similar scenario in Nepal, where pastors found themselves incarcerated but unwavering in their faith. A story unfolds of a pastor who initially renounced his faith but later repented, sparking a profound revival in West Nepal. In another instance, the police intended to broadcast the film "Jesus," and the police chief sought the assistance of Christians to repair his television so that he could watch the film.

The speaker issues a resounding call to pray for these Christians who stand strong in the face of adversity, and he underscores the significance of the word "nevertheless" in faith. For God, the ever-present wellspring of comfort and hope, is the steadfast anchor of believers. The narrative culminates with an impassioned plea to live out one's faith in practical ways, seizing every opportunity to make a positive impact in the world.

In this winding journey through faith, grace, challenges, and perseverance, the narrative encapsulates the essence of faith in the face of adversity, the profound impact of grace, and the unwavering commitment to a purpose that transcends borders and cultures. It is a story that resonates with the universal human spirit of resilience and the unyielding power of faith.