Influence Society for Good

Chris Cole reflects on how Christians can influence society in positive ways by standing up for their faith and sharing their testimony of all God has done in their lives

When Reverend Les Isaac OBE got up to speak at the London Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast on July 5, he didn’t know his words would end up being the catalyst for change at the very top of British government. But Sajid Javid, whose resignation as the UK Health Secretary started the wave of ministerial departures that brought the Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, to resign, told the BBC’s Sophie Raworth it was Rev Isaac’s sermon that made him decide to quit.

Sajid Javid said: “It might sound a bit strange, but I was listening to the sermon by this amazing man, Reverend Les Isaac – you know, he started Street Pastors. I was listening to him talking about the importance of integrity in public life, and just focusing on that, I made up my mind. I went straight back to my office and drafted the resignation letter and went to see the prime minister later in the day.”

 

And thanks to the BBC, Rev Isaac’s message of the need for humility and integrity in public life didn’t just influence a politician’s decision, but also reached millions of people on television and online.

The Bible tells us that “God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” 1 Samuel 16:7 “Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Avoid all perverse talk; stay away from corrupt speech” Proverbs 4: 23-24.

For more than 40 years I have been working out my existential questions of faith as a Christian. I shared my testimony in the May issue of The Plymouth Chronicle and I ended that article by encouraging the readers that should they have a personal belief in Jesus Christ, then like Les Isaac take every opportunity to share their faith and testimony because it is the power of God to influence our society for good. Many of the values we share, even in a secular society have their foundations in the Judeo/Christian world view and narrative.

As I write this article on July 15^th, I’m listening to President Biden’s speech (I think I can multi-task), as he addresses the Palestinian leadership in Bethlehem commenting deeply and powerfully on the redemptive power of Jesus Christ, born in a stable in Bethlehem 2000 years ago as God becoming human and Who is increasingly influencing the world for good.

The challenge for every person who puts their trust in Jesus Christ is to consider supporting your church leadership by sharing your own faith throughout life’s opportunities. We are encouraged through the Bible to share our faith with others. This is the primary means and growth of the 360 million Christians who live in countries where the freedom of speech and religious conscience is persecuted.

Whilst we do not live in a country which persecutes religious faith, we do live in such a time as this from the story in the book of Esther, when it has never been more important to give an account for the hope we have in Jesus Christ. Overcome fear within and motivated by the love of God reach out to your neighbour with good thoughts, action and where the opportunity presents itself a positive, non-religious conversation.

Also read The testimony of Chris Cole, Light shone through the darkness.