- Select Chapter
- Chapter 1: Mystery of God
- Chapter 2: Embracing Divine Balance
- Chapter 3: Spirit of Renewal
- Chapter 4: Nature of God
- Chapter 5: The Impartial Way
- Chapter 6: The Living Spirit
- Chapter 7: Unity in Sacrifice
- Chapter 8: Way of the Master Servant
- Chapter 9: Overcoming Excessiveness
- Chapter 10: The Spirit of God
- Chapter 11: Body and Spirit
- Chapter 12: Living in the Spirit
- Chapter 13: Misfortune of Ego
- Chapter 14: Presence of God
- Chapter 15: Power in Stillness
- Chapter 16: Restoration
- Chapter 17: Leading Without Praise
- Chapter 18: The Self
- Chapter 19: Living The Way of Truth
- Chapter 20: Disciple of Jesus
- Chapter 21: Temple of the Spirit
- Chapter 22: Divine Wholeness
- Chapter 23: You Reap What You Sow
- Chapter 24: The Ego
- Chapter 25: The Great
- Chapter 26: Rooted in the Light of Christ
- Chapter 27: Pathway of Mercy
- Chapter 28: Simplicity in Spirit
- Chapter 29: Better Left Alone
- Chapter 30: The Fulfillment
- Chapter 31: Weapons of the World
- Chapter 32: Sovereign God
- Chapter 33: Self-Awareness
- Chapter 34: Living Water
- Chapter 35: Mystical Word of God
- Chapter 36: Natural Order
- Chapter 37: Absence of Desire
- Chapter 38: The Seed of God
- Chapter 39: Humility
- Chapter 40: Cycle of Life
- Chapter 41: Mysterious Nature of God
- Chapter 42: Harmony in Unity
- Chapter 43: His Invisible Presence
- Chapter 44: Spiritual Wealth
- Chapter 45: Built For Greatness
- Chapter 46: Contentment
- Chapter 47: Inner Wisdom
- Chapter 48: Be Still and Let God
- Chapter 49: The Good Shepherd
- Chapter 50: To Die is Gain
- Chapter 51: Mysterious Power of the Spirit
- Chapter 52: Faith
- Chapter 53: The Lost Way
- Chapter 54: Sowing Your Seed
- Chapter 55: Power of Simplicity
- Chapter 56: Oneness of God
- Chapter 57: Good Governance
- Chapter 58: Paradox
- Chapter 59: Power of the Spirit
- Chapter 60: Body of Light
- Chapter 61: Honoring the Lowly
- Chapter 62: Gift of Salvation
- Chapter 63: Achieving Greatness
- Chapter 64: Journey of Faith
- Chapter 65: Simplicity of Life
- Chapter 66: Leading From Behind
- Chapter 67: Power of Love
- Chapter 68: Humble Leadership
- Chapter 69: Compassion
- Chapter 70: Understanding God
- Chapter 71: Self-Knowledge
- Chapter 72: Freedom
- Chapter 73: Judgement of God
- Chapter 74: The Sovereign Judge
- Chapter 75: Materialism
- Chapter 76: A Gentle Approach
- Chapter 77: Divine Balance
- Chapter 78: Strength in Weakness
- Chapter 79: Rich in the Eyes of God
- Chapter 80: Simple Life
- Chapter 81: True Servants of God
RESTORE
This chapter from the BFG Handbook (Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching) presents the gospel through a new "Expression" of God’s Love to RESTORE the Truth.
Chapter 30: The Fulfillment
Those who rely on God to advise the ruler
Maintain control of the world without weapons
For all who draw the sword will die by the sword a
Wherever army troops camp
Thistles and thorns grow b
In the wake of a great war follow years of famine
The Master fulfills His purpose, then stops c
And does not take advantage of His power to reach domination a
He fulfills His purpose but does not boast d
He fulfills His purpose but does not take glory
He fulfills His purpose but is not arrogant
He fulfills His purpose but only by necessary means c
He fulfills His purpose but without force a
Strong forces become powerful for a period of time but they will come to an end e
This is contrary to the everlasting God
That which is contrary to God soon ends
a Matthew 26:50-56; b Matthew 24:4-8; c John 19:28-30; d Ephesians 2:8-10; Hebrews 5:5; John 8:54; e Revelation 21:6-10; Revelation 22:12-15.
Chapter 30 of the Christian edition of the Tao Te Ching highlights the fulfillment of a purpose through humility, restraint, and reliance on God, emphasizing that force and violence are not the means to true power or control. The chapter opens by stating that those who rely on God to guide their leadership maintain control without resorting to weapons, as the Bible teaches that “all who draw the sword will die by the sword” (Matthew 26:52). This echoes the teaching of Jesus that the use of violence, even in defense, leads to more destruction and suffering. Jesus Himself demonstrated this by choosing peace and non-violence, even when betrayed and arrested in the garden.
The chapter also points out that when war and conflict arise, they leave destruction in their wake, symbolized by thistles, thorns, and famine. This mirrors Jesus’ words in Matthew 24:6-8, where He warns that wars and rumors of wars are signs of the brokenness of the world. The aftermath of war and conflict leads to greater suffering and disruption, something that can only be healed by divine intervention and peace.
The Master, embodying the traits of Christ, fulfills His purpose without seeking domination or using power for selfish gain. He does not boast, take glory, or act with arrogance—He fulfills His purpose with humility and only through necessary means. Jesus exemplified this perfectly, particularly in His final act on the cross, where He fulfilled His purpose to save humanity without seeking personal glory or pride (John 19:28-30). His actions were not driven by force, but by love and obedience to the Father.
The chapter ends by highlighting that powerful forces and strong empires come to an end, but the will of God is eternal. This aligns with the Christian teaching that human power is temporary and fleeting, while God’s sovereignty endures forever. As Revelation 21:6-7 states, God is the Alpha and the Omega, and His rule is everlasting. The forces that go against God are destined to fail, as the chapter teaches, “that which is contrary to God soon ends.” Therefore, the Christian perspective emphasizes that true fulfillment and lasting impact come not through force or domination but through alignment with God’s will, humility, and peace.
RENEWAL
The Trinitarian Method (M.A.P.) is the framework for RENEWAL, where God’s Love shapes our MINDSET, Trust in the Son directs our AIM, and Faith in the Holy Spirit guides our PRACTICE.
Mindset:
1. The Dangers of Violence and Power
- Line from the chapter: “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Mindset: Reject the use of force as a means of solving problems. Embrace peace and understanding.
- Explanation: The principle calls us to understand that violence leads to more violence. When we rely on force to overcome challenges, we are ultimately bound by its consequences. The Christian mindset here is to embrace the teachings of Jesus, who lived and died to demonstrate that peace and reconciliation are more powerful than conflict and violence.
- Real-world application: Before reacting with anger or force in difficult situations, pause and consider peaceful alternatives. In relationships or in leadership, rather than asserting dominance, seek common ground and solutions that promote understanding and unity. For example, in workplace disputes, instead of threatening punitive actions, offer to mediate and facilitate open dialogue to resolve the conflict.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 26:52 – “Put your sword back in its place, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Romans 12:19 – “Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: ‘It is mine to avenge; I will repay,’ says the Lord.”
2. The Consequences of War
- Line from the chapter: “Wherever army troops camp, thistles and thorns grow. In the wake of a great war follow years of famine.”
- Mindset: Recognize that war and conflict lead to long-lasting consequences that affect everyone.
- Explanation: War may provide temporary victories but leaves behind deep scars—economic hardship, trauma, and loss. The mindset here is to avoid glorifying or pursuing war, instead seeking peaceful, diplomatic, and restorative solutions. The Christian teaching aligns with this, focusing on reconciliation and the healing of divisions rather than perpetuating cycles of violence.
- Real-world application: Before entering into any kind of conflict—whether at work, in politics, or in personal relationships—reflect on the long-term consequences of your actions. Is the immediate gain worth the lasting harm? Prioritize peacebuilding efforts and work towards solutions that minimize damage and encourage healing. For example, in conflicts between colleagues or nations, explore compromise, dialogue, and mediation before resorting to ultimatums or aggressive measures.
- Scripture references:
- James 4:1-2 – “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you? You desire but do not have; so you kill.”
- Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
3. The Humility of True Leadership
- Line from the chapter: “The Master fulfills His purpose, then stops and does not take advantage of His power to reach domination.”
- Mindset: Lead with humility and serve others without seeking personal gain or dominance.
- Explanation: True leadership is not about accumulating power, but about fulfilling one’s responsibilities in a way that serves others. The Christian perspective teaches that leadership should be servant-based, as exemplified by Jesus, who led by serving, not by dominating. This mindset encourages leaders to be mindful of the welfare of others and to use their influence to empower, not control.
- Real-world application: Before acting as a leader, whether in a workplace or a community, focus on how you can serve those around you. Do not seek power for its own sake, but instead, aim to help others reach their potential. In leadership positions, practice listening, encourage collaboration, and seek the good of the whole rather than personal accolades. For instance, a manager could seek to develop their team members by providing resources for growth rather than keeping all credit for success.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
- Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
4. The Humility of Purpose and the Absence of Boasting
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but does not boast. He fulfills His purpose but does not take glory.”
- Mindset: Fulfill your purpose without seeking recognition or praise.
- Explanation: This principle calls for humility in the accomplishment of one’s purpose. The Christian mindset here emphasizes that we should do good work for the glory of God, not for our own recognition. By acknowledging that all success comes from God, we avoid pride and boastfulness, focusing instead on serving and fulfilling our divine calling.
- Real-world application: Before taking any action, reflect on whether your motivation is to glorify yourself or to serve others. In your professional or personal life, focus on the work itself, rather than on accolades or recognition. For example, when completing a project or contributing to a cause, do so with the mindset that the success is a result of God’s grace and your service, not personal achievement.
- Scripture references:
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
- Matthew 6:1-4 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.”
5. The Inevitability of the End of Force and Dominance
- Line from the chapter: “Strong forces become powerful for a period of time but they will come to an end. This is contrary to the everlasting God.”
- Mindset: Acknowledge that all human power is temporary and that only God’s will endures.
- Explanation: This principle reminds us that the pursuit of human power and dominance is futile in the long run. While it may seem effective for a time, it will ultimately fade away. God’s reign, on the other hand, is eternal, and any force that goes against His will is doomed to fail. The Christian mindset focuses on the eternal nature of God and the futility of relying on temporary, earthly power.
- Real-world application: Before taking action based on personal ambition or seeking control, consider the temporality of human achievements. In business or personal endeavors, focus on values that last—integrity, justice, and kindness—rather than short-term victories or personal gains. For example, when faced with decisions that offer quick success but may compromise your values, choose to act with long-term integrity, knowing that God’s will will stand forever.
- Scripture references:
- Psalm 103:19 – “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”
- Matthew 24:35 – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
6. Fulfilling Purpose Without Force
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but only by necessary means. He fulfills His purpose but without force.”
- Mindset: Approach tasks with patience and gentleness, avoiding unnecessary force.
- Explanation: The principle teaches us to accomplish our goals without resorting to force or manipulation. In the Christian context, this aligns with the idea of living humbly, following God’s guidance, and trusting that His way does not require coercion. Rather than forcing things to happen, the mindset here is to trust in God’s timing and use wisdom, patience, and humility.
- Real-world application: Before acting in any situation, ask yourself whether your approach is gentle and aligned with God’s will. In leadership, use influence wisely and respectfully, without pressure. For example, in a team setting, you might encourage collaboration and trust the process instead of pushing your team members toward a specific result. In personal growth, trust that God’s timing is perfect, and let His guidance lead you, avoiding the temptation to rush or force outcomes.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
- 2 Corinthians 10:1 – “By the humility and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you.”
The mindset for practicing the principles in this chapter is one of humility, peace, patience, and trust in God. We are called to reject violence, acknowledge the consequences of conflict, lead with humility, avoid boasting, recognize the transience of human power, and fulfill our purpose without force. All of these principles align with Christian teachings that emphasize serving others, pursuing peace, and trusting in God’s eternal will.
AIM:
1. Avoid the Use of Force
- Line from the chapter: “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Aim: Strive to resolve conflict peacefully and avoid the use of force.
- Explanation: The principle reminds us that relying on force leads to harm and often perpetuates further conflict. Our aim should be to approach challenges with a peaceful mindset, focusing on reconciliation and understanding rather than coercion or violence. Jesus’ teachings emphasize peacemaking and love even in the face of opposition.
- Real-world application: In any situation, whether at work, in family relationships, or in society, aim to de-escalate tensions. If a conflict arises, choose words over actions, seek compromise, and prioritize listening over speaking. For example, if you are in a disagreement at work, avoid escalating the situation by raising your voice or asserting dominance. Instead, seek mutual understanding and agreement through respectful dialogue.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 26:52 – “Put your sword back in its place, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
2. Recognize the Consequences of War
- Line from the chapter: “Wherever army troops camp, thistles and thorns grow. In the wake of a great war follow years of famine.”
- Aim: Aim to create a peaceful and sustainable world, avoiding conflict and its long-term consequences.
- Explanation: This principle teaches that war and conflict may seem like a solution in the short term, but they often lead to deeper consequences, including economic instability, famine, and human suffering. The goal should be to seek alternatives to war and to build a world that thrives on cooperation rather than destruction.
- Real-world application: In decision-making, consider the long-term effects of your choices. In business, this could mean choosing ethical practices that don’t exploit others or the environment for short-term gain. In personal life, avoid engaging in or promoting toxic behaviors that lead to harm, and instead, seek peace and understanding. For instance, when faced with a political disagreement, focus on civil discourse rather than harsh rhetoric or division.
- Scripture references:
- James 4:1 – “What causes fights and quarrels among you? Don’t they come from your desires that battle within you?”
- Isaiah 2:4 – “He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks.”
3. Lead with Humility and Serve Others
- Line from the chapter: “The Master fulfills His purpose, then stops and does not take advantage of His power to reach domination.”
- Aim: Focus on serving others, leading with humility and restraint rather than seeking power for personal gain.
- Explanation: The goal is to lead not by domination but by fulfilling your purpose in service to others. Jesus demonstrated leadership through humble service, teaching us that greatness in the kingdom of God is defined by servanthood, not by the accumulation of power.
- Real-world application: When leading others—whether in a professional, community, or family setting—aim to serve rather than control. In leadership, this means empowering others, encouraging collaboration, and showing genuine care for their well-being. For example, a manager might mentor their employees to help them grow in their skills, rather than focusing solely on their own success or advancing their career.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
- Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
4. Fulfilling Purpose Without Boasting
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but does not boast. He fulfills His purpose but does not take glory.”
- Aim: Aim to fulfill your purpose quietly and humbly, without seeking recognition or praise.
- Explanation: The principle encourages us to act in accordance with our purpose, but without seeking personal glory. In Christianity, this is exemplified by Jesus, who performed miracles and fulfilled His mission without drawing attention to His own greatness. Our aim should be to act out of obedience to God, not for accolades or recognition.
- Real-world application: In your work, relationships, and service, avoid seeking praise or recognition. Fulfill your role or responsibilities quietly, with a focus on the good that is being done, rather than on your role in doing it. For example, in a team project, contribute selflessly without needing the spotlight, focusing on the success of the group rather than individual accolades.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 6:1 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
5. Recognize the Temporal Nature of Human Power
- Line from the chapter: “Strong forces become powerful for a period of time but they will come to an end. This is contrary to the everlasting God.”
- Aim: Focus on eternal values and align your actions with God’s eternal will, knowing that human power is fleeting.
- Explanation: This principle reminds us that human strength and power are temporary. No matter how strong or dominant one may seem, all power fades away. The eternal, unchanging nature of God is the foundation on which we should build our lives. Our aim should be to focus on eternal truths and values rather than fleeting, earthly power.
- Real-world application: When making decisions, ask yourself whether they are grounded in eternal values like love, justice, and humility, rather than in the pursuit of temporary success or power. In business, focus on sustainable practices and long-term growth that honors God’s principles, rather than seeking quick profits at the expense of ethics. In relationships, build connections based on trust and mutual respect, not on control or manipulation.
- Scripture references:
- Psalm 103:19 – “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”
- Matthew 24:35 – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
6. Fulfill Your Purpose Without Force
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but only by necessary means. He fulfills His purpose but without force.”
- Aim: Seek to accomplish your goals through gentle influence, not through coercion or force.
- Explanation: This principle calls for accomplishing goals through wisdom, patience, and gentle influence, rather than through aggression or manipulation. In Christianity, this aligns with the way of Jesus, who fulfilled His mission through love and sacrifice, not through force or pressure.
- Real-world application: In both personal and professional settings, aim to achieve your goals in a way that respects others’ autonomy and does not pressure or manipulate. For instance, in a leadership role, aim to inspire rather than control. Instead of forcing employees to comply with directives, focus on motivating them by showing how their work aligns with a greater purpose and the well-being of others.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
- 2 Corinthians 10:1 – “By the humility and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you.”
Practice:
1. Practice Peace Over Power
- Line from the chapter: “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Practice: Choose peace over conflict and practice conflict resolution with patience and understanding.
- Explanation: This principle teaches that using force or violence leads to further harm and division. The Way of God urges us to follow the path of peace and reconciliation. Jesus taught us to be peacemakers, which involves seeking resolution and harmony rather than domination. We should practice peaceful solutions to conflicts, whether in personal or professional settings.
- Real-world application: In situations of conflict, instead of escalating the situation, choose to listen, empathize, and find a common ground. For example, when tensions arise in the workplace, instead of resorting to criticism or coercion, offer constructive feedback and encourage collaboration. In family dynamics, encourage open communication and work towards understanding differing perspectives without resorting to shouting or threats.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 26:52 – “Put your sword back in its place, for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
2. Practice Humility and Restraint in Leadership
- Line from the chapter: “The Master fulfills His purpose, then stops and does not take advantage of His power to reach domination.”
- Practice: Lead with humility and serve others without seeking to control or dominate.
- Explanation: This principle emphasizes that true leadership involves serving others and fulfilling your purpose without taking advantage of your power. Jesus exemplified this by leading through love and sacrifice, not through domination or control. We are called to lead by example, with humility, integrity, and a heart for service.
- Real-world application: In your work or personal life, practice leadership by serving others. For example, as a manager, focus on empowering your team, offering guidance, and promoting growth rather than asserting your authority for personal gain. In your community, be the one who steps up to help others without seeking recognition or praise, just fulfilling your role out of love and duty.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
- Philippians 2:3-4 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
3. Practice Patience and Avoid Excess
- Line from the chapter: “Strong forces become powerful for a period of time but they will come to an end. This is contrary to the everlasting God.”
- Practice: Practice patience and avoid seeking excess or the temporary pursuit of power.
- Explanation: Human power and force are fleeting, while God’s eternal nature is unchanging. We are called to focus on what is eternal, rejecting the pursuit of temporary gain and the excess that leads to downfall. Patience allows us to avoid impulsive decisions that may lead to regret and allows God’s will to unfold in its perfect timing.
- Real-world application: In your daily life, be mindful of not pursuing shortcuts or striving for temporary achievements. In business, avoid overextending yourself for immediate profit, and instead focus on sustainable practices that build long-term success. In personal relationships, be patient and allow space for others to grow, rather than forcing outcomes or rushing through important moments.
- Scripture references:
- Psalm 103:19 – “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”
- Matthew 6:19-21 – “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”
4. Practice Quiet Confidence in Fulfilling Your Purpose
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but does not boast. He fulfills His purpose but does not take glory.”
- Practice: Fulfill your purpose with quiet confidence, without seeking public recognition or boasting.
- Explanation: This principle calls us to pursue our purpose with dedication but without pride or the need for praise. True fulfillment comes when we focus on fulfilling God’s will, not on receiving recognition. We are to serve humbly, knowing that God sees our hearts and knows our efforts.
- Real-world application: In your work, focus on doing your best without seeking acknowledgment or approval from others. For example, in a team project, contribute your skills and efforts wholeheartedly, not for personal recognition, but to bring about the best results for the team. In your community, volunteer and serve without expecting gratitude or fame, knowing that the true reward is in fulfilling God’s will.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 6:1 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
5. Practice Non-violence and Gentleness in Achieving Goals
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but only by necessary means. He fulfills His purpose but without force.”
- Practice: Pursue your goals with gentleness and humility, avoiding forceful actions or manipulation.
- Explanation: This principle encourages achieving our purpose in God’s will through wisdom, gentleness, and compassion, rather than through force or harshness. Jesus embodied this through His life and ministry, teaching us that the Kingdom of God grows through love, not through forceful power.
- Real-world application: Whether you are working towards a personal goal, a career milestone, or resolving conflicts, avoid using manipulation or aggression to achieve your objectives. Instead, practice wisdom, patience, and gentleness in all your interactions. For instance, when managing a team, encourage collaboration and harmony, rather than forcing decisions or imposing your will on others.
- Scripture references:
- Matthew 11:29 – “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
- 2 Corinthians 10:1 – “By the humility and gentleness of Christ, I appeal to you.”
6. Practice Recognition of God’s Eternal Power Over Human Power
- Line from the chapter: “This is contrary to the everlasting God. That which is contrary to God soon ends.”
- Practice: Acknowledge the eternal nature of God’s power and align your actions with His will, recognizing that human power is temporary.
- Explanation: This principle reminds us that no matter how strong human forces seem, they are always temporary compared to the eternal power of God. By recognizing this truth, we can stay grounded in the pursuit of God’s will, focusing on His eternal kingdom rather than on the temporary things of this world.
- Real-world application: In every area of life, remind yourself that your achievements or the power you hold are temporary. Stay focused on eternal values such as love, kindness, and truth. For example, in the face of worldly success, continue to humble yourself and focus on serving others, remembering that God’s will is more important than worldly recognition or power.
- Scripture references:
- Psalm 103:19 – “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”
- Matthew 24:35 – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
RESPOND
Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with ardor, empowering us to RESPOND to the call of holiness and make disciples of all nations. This encourages meaningful dialogue to embrace shared truths that transcend cultural and religious boundaries.
1. Non-Violence and the Power of Peace
- Line from the chapter: “For all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”
- Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” (Matthew 5:9)
- Hinduism: Ahimsa (non-violence) is one of the key principles in Hinduism, as taught by figures like Mahatma Gandhi.
- Buddhism: “May all beings be happy; may all beings be without disease.” (Metta Sutta)
- Islam: “And if you punish, then punish with an equivalent of that with which you were harmed. But if you pardon, it is nearer to righteousness.” (Quran 42:40)
- How This Unites Us: The call to peace and non-violence is a common thread across all major religions. It encourages us to choose understanding over conflict, promoting harmony in both individual and collective lives. By emphasizing peaceful resolution and rejecting violent means, these teachings remind us of our shared human dignity and the sacredness of life.
- Real-world Application: In today’s world, this principle can be applied in resolving disputes, whether in the workplace, personal relationships, or international diplomacy. For example, promoting dialogue in conflict zones instead of escalating violence fosters peace. Even in smaller settings, advocating for non-violent conflict resolution in your community or workplace can bring about lasting change.
- Scripture References:
- Matthew 5:9 – “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.”
- Romans 12:18 – “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
2. Humility in Leadership and Service
- Line from the chapter: “The Master fulfills His purpose, then stops and does not take advantage of His power to reach domination.”
- Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26-28)
- Buddhism: “He who is humble and patient is the strongest of the strong.” (Dhammapada)
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita emphasizes selfless action, where one should act without attachment to the fruits of their labor.
- Islam: “Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.” (Quran 49:13)
- How This Unites Us: Across these religious traditions, the emphasis on humility in leadership promotes a universal truth: true greatness is found in serving others. Leaders are called to lead by example, not by force, and to remain humble in their power, serving others selflessly. This teaching fosters unity by reminding us that leadership is about service, not control, aligning us toward collective well-being.
- Real-world Application: In modern life, this principle can be applied by seeking to serve those around you rather than asserting dominance. For example, in a leadership role, focus on empowering others and fostering their growth rather than simply pursuing personal success. In family life, practice humility by putting the needs of your loved ones before your own.
- Scripture References:
- Matthew 20:26-28 – “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
- Philippians 2:3 – “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.”
3. Patience and Avoidance of Excess
- Line from the chapter: “Strong forces become powerful for a period of time but they will come to an end. This is contrary to the everlasting God.”
- Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
- Buddhism: The Middle Way encourages living a life of balance, avoiding excess and indulgence.
- Hinduism: In the Bhagavad Gita, Lord Krishna teaches that those who seek self-control and discipline lead a balanced life and avoid extremes.
- Islam: “And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor stingy, but are between that, justly moderate.” (Quran 25:67)
- How This Unites Us: Across religions, the idea of moderation is emphasized. Avoiding excess and seeking balance in life is a principle that helps us live harmoniously with ourselves and others. By practicing patience and moderation, we align ourselves with a deeper spiritual truth that transcends temporary desires and focuses on eternal well-being.
- Real-world Application: This principle can be applied by practicing self-control in various aspects of life, such as eating, spending, and emotional responses. For example, instead of indulging in excessive material possessions, focus on gratitude and contentment with what you have. In moments of stress or impatience, practice mindfulness and choose patience over immediate gratification.
- Scripture References:
- Galatians 5:22-23 – “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
- 1 Timothy 6:6 – “But godliness with contentment is great gain.”
4. Selfless Fulfillment of Purpose
- Line from the chapter: “He fulfills His purpose but does not boast. He fulfills His purpose but does not take glory.”
- Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31)
- Buddhism: Buddha emphasized performing one’s duties without attachment to results, doing so for the benefit of others.
- Hinduism: The Bhagavad Gita teaches that one should act selflessly without attachment to the outcome of their actions (karma yoga).
- Islam: “And [Allah] does not love the arrogant.” (Quran 31:18)
- How This Unites Us: Across these religious traditions, fulfilling one’s purpose with humility and without seeking glory unites us under a common understanding: true fulfillment comes not from recognition or accolades but from doing the right thing for the right reasons. This principle encourages us to act selflessly and with integrity, fostering unity and cooperation rather than division.
- Real-world Application: Whether in professional or personal life, practice doing things with humility, without seeking to take credit or recognition. For example, in your workplace, contribute to team projects without focusing on the spotlight, and in your community, volunteer for causes not for praise but out of genuine care and service.
- Scripture References:
- 1 Corinthians 10:31 – “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
- Matthew 6:1 – “Be careful not to practice your righteousness in front of others to be seen by them.”
5. The Temporary Nature of Human Power vs. God’s Eternal Power
- Line from the chapter: “That which is contrary to God soon ends.”
- Parallel Religious Teachings:
- Christianity: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
- Buddhism: The impermanence of all things (anicca) is a central concept in Buddhism, acknowledging that all things are fleeting.
- Hinduism: “The body is perishable, but the self that dwells in the body is eternal.” (Bhagavad Gita 2:20)
- Islam: “Allah is the eternal and the everlasting.” (Quran 2:255)
- How This Unites Us: The recognition of the temporary nature of human power and the eternal nature of God’s reign is a unifying truth that calls all people to humble themselves before the divine. Across religions, this awareness encourages us to focus on eternal truths rather than temporary gains, fostering a sense of shared humility and dependence on God.
- Real-world Application: In life, avoid becoming overly attached to personal achievements or temporary power. Instead, focus on cultivating spiritual growth, understanding that all worldly things are fleeting. In times of success, remember that it is God’s grace that allows you to prosper, and in times of hardship, trust in His eternal plan.
- Scripture References:
- Matthew 24:35 – “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
- Quran 2:255 – “Allah is the eternal and the everlasting.”