Acts 13:38-39 “Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by the law of Moses.

I chose these verses to write on because of the declaration of forgiveness, but I ran into a fascinating difference in translation between the NIV and the Japanese. In verse 39, the NIV says “justified,” and the Japanese says “set free.” “Justified” is very much a “churchese” word, particularly in this usage, and in other usage it means “had a good excuse.” That second meaning really doesn’t apply to any sin, and “churchese” isn’t helpful in communicating the Gospel to those who don’t already know it. On the other hand, “set free” is a concept even small children can understand. Regardless of those points of translation, it is clear that Paul is speaking to people who have a foundation of understanding of Mosaic Law. Otherwise, their understanding of sin would have been deficient. Missionaries in general all too often fail to be culturally relevant in their presentation of the Gospel. This particular passage would mean absolutely nothing to the average Japanese, because they know next to nothing about Moses, much less his law. It is only when we understand the Law that the idea of being set free from its penalties becomes attractive. However, you don’t have to have the Mosaic Law to understand that you are a sinner in need of salvation. In each culture, the Gospel needs to be presented in ways that will get through to the hearers, without distorting the basic truths. This applies across geographical boundaries and generational boundaries, as well as ethnic and social boundaries within a nation or age group.

As a cross-cultural minister, born and raised in a missionary family, this could hardly be more applicable. I saw difficulties for my parents in this area, and I have certainly run into them myself. In my case, not only am I non-Japanese, I was born and raised steeped in the Bible, and I am ministering to many who have never even held a Bible in their hands. All too often my messages go right over the heads of many of my hearers, and that is not being an effective witness. I need the wisdom and anointing of the Holy Spirit to proclaim the things He says through me in ways that people can receive them. I am very aware that the messenger colors the message. I need to do everything I can to let that coloration be as light as possible in respect to those who hear me, so that the message will not be obscured.

Father, You know my failures in this area even better than I do. I ask for Your help to bring Your Word to the level my hearers can receive it, without distorting it in any way. I certainly don’t have the wisdom for the task, so I rely on You. May Your Word through me accomplish all that You intend in the heart of each hearer, for their salvation and Your glory. Thank You. Hallelujah!