ODJ: Common Colors

November 1, 2016 

READ: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 

I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings (vv.22-23).

In the space of two days, I saw two chameleons—one bright green and the other dark brown. When my daughter called me over to see the brown one on a tree trunk, it took me a while to find it—further reinforcing my understanding of the way a chameleon changes color to blend in with its environment as a form of camouflage.

But this camouflage thing is only partially true! Truth is, a chameleon changes color primarily as a visual sign of mood and aggression, territory, and mating behavior.

The apostle Paul altered the way he communicated to different people so that they would clearly understand the good news. Although he himself was “free,” he became “a slave” to all people, becoming like them and communicating in a way that would resonate—so that many would come to know and believe in Jesus (1 Corinthians 9:19). When he was with the Jews, Paul lived like a Jew so he could bring them to Jesus. When he was with those who followed the Jewish law, he lived under the law. Even though he wasn’t subject to the law, he did this so he could point others to Christ. When he was with the Gentiles, who didn’t follow the Jewish law, he didn’t emphasize the law in his ministry. All the while, he never ignored or violated the law of God, but continued to obey it (vv.20-21).

He said, “When I am with those who are weak, I share their weakness, for I want to bring the weak to Christ. Yes, I try to find common ground with everyone, doing everything I can to save some. I do everything to spread the Good News and share in its blessings” (vv.22-23).

May we also meet people where they are today, sharing the good news of Jesus with respect and relevancy as He leads us!

—Ruth O’Reilly-Smith

365-day plan: Acts 16:1-15

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Read 1 Peter 3:15 and consider how well you are prepared to tell others why you believe in Jesus. 
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What’s the most challenging aspect of sharing the hope you have in Christ with others? How can you use common interests to point them to Jesus?