Joseph Otsibah 
In discussions among many Christians living outside their home countries—particularly in Western societies – the phrase “the context here is different” is frequently heard. It is often used to explain variations in lifestyle, worship, or moral choices shaped by cultural and social environments. While context undeniably influences how faith is expressed, a more critical question confronts the Church today: Does context alter the standard of God’s Word?
Scripture provides a clear and consistent answer – it does not. God’s Word is eternal and unchanging, and His standards do not shift from one nation to another. There is no higher measure for believers in Ghana and a lower one for those in Australia. The same truths that governed the early Church continue to define authentic Christian living today. Faith in Jesus Christ, dependence on the Holy Spirit, devotion to prayer, and obedience to Scripture remain the pillars of the Christian walk, regardless of time or place.
If context were permitted to redefine the Gospel, core Christian disciplines would become optional. Prayer would lose its urgency, the work of the Holy Spirit would be seen as outdated, and obedience to God’s Word would be negotiable. Yet, across cultures and generations, believers continue to experience transformation when they submit to these timeless principles. This affirms that while cultures evolve, God’s truth remains constant.
It is important, however, to clarify that acknowledging context is not inherently wrong. Context should guide how the Gospel is communicated, not what the Gospel is. Methods of evangelism and discipleship may vary between Accra, New York, or Sydney, but the message of salvation through Christ must remain unchanged. Worship styles, languages, and expressions may differ, yet the substance of the faith must be preserved. The God who empowered the early believers is the same God at work in the Church today.
The danger arises when “context” is used to justify compromise. In a bid to appear culturally acceptable, the truth of the Gospel is sometimes diluted. However, Christians are not called to make the Gospel convenient but to live it out faithfully and courageously. The Apostle Paul provides a powerful example. Though he adapted his approach to suit diverse audiences, he never altered the message. Whether reasoning from Scripture in the synagogue or engaging philosophers at the Areopagus, Paul tailored his method without compromising truth.
This remains the Church’s mandate today. Context should inform our approach, not redefine our convictions. As Christ declared, believers are the salt of the earth and the light of the world. Our responsibility is to preserve the truth of the Gospel and shine its light wherever we are planted.
In an age of shifting values, the Church must remain anchored. Let us resist allowing context to weaken conviction and instead seek Spirit-led wisdom to live out eternal truth in relevant ways. This is the calling of the Church, including The Church of Pentecost, in every nation.
Written by Eld. Dr. Ernest Akuamoah (Canberra Capital District, Eastern Area – Australia)
About The Author
Joseph Attoh 
