Share the Gospel with Integrity

“But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God who tests our hearts.” (1Thessalonians 2:4, NKJV)

The Apostle Paul perceived the dangers that might threaten to compromise his credibility as Christ’s messenger. Let us look at what he avoided doing when sharing the Gospel:

1. The use of flattery words or telling people what they want to hear instead of the truth and the whole message from God.
2. The cloak of covetousness or preaching the Gospel with concealed impure motives as a way to gain material wealth.
3. To seek glory from men or indulge in men’s praise instead of giving God all the glory and honor.

During his ministry, he kept his integrity on the truth that God has entrusted him to preach the message of the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Moreover, his plan to spread the Gospel to the Gentiles was a calling from God and a direct instruction from the Lord Jesus Christ. As you noticed, his aim was not to please men but to honor God. He declared the Word with boldness and without deceit that they abstain from every form of evil. He endured hardships, oppositions, and persecutions. He relied on God’s provision for his needs as He worked and never coveted the wealth of others.

Like the Apostle Paul, the best way to represent Christ and counter the doubts of the unbelieving modern culture is to present ourselves with integrity as ministers of the Word. We need to be watchful for the Bible says, “people will follow their own desires and will look for teachers who will tell them whatever their itching ears want to hear” (1 Timothy 4:3). We should never compromise the truth. We need to cling to sound doctrine and proclaim God’s principle. 

Remember, aim to please God rather than pleasing people! 

The Lord searches our hearts and knows our motives. So let us firmly stand for the truth and share the Gospel with integrity!

– Contributed by Ptr Neil Marlon Crisostomo