Incarnational ministry or theology refers to the belief that Christians should follow Jesus’ example of becoming like those they are trying to reach in order to effectively share the gospel. The word “incarnation” means “in the flesh” and refers to Jesus coming to earth as a human being (John 1:14). Some key aspects of incarnational ministry include:
- Identifying and connecting with non-believers where they are, such as building relationships in their communities.
- Adapting to the language, culture, and interests of those being reached.
- Focusing on service and meeting practical needs as Jesus did, in addition to sharing the gospel.
- Living among or spending significant time developing relationships with non-Christians.
The concept of incarnational ministry is primarily based on Philippians 2:5-8, where Paul writes:
Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross (Philippians 2:5-8 ESV).
Here Paul encourages Christians to follow Jesus’ example of humbling himself by leaving heaven, taking on human flesh, and dying to save humanity. Based on this and other passages, advocates argue that Christians should similarly sacrifice their comforts and status to identify with those they are trying to reach.
Some other biblical examples pointed to include:
- Jesus living among humanity – Christ left heaven to dwell among us as a man (John 1:14). He took on human culture and customs like attending weddings, feasts, and synagogues.
- Paul adapting his methods – He wrote “I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some” (1 Cor 9:19-23). Paul was flexible culturally to remove barriers in communicating the gospel.
- Peter staying with Simon the tanner – He lodged with Simon even though his profession was viewed as unclean (Acts 9:43). Peter set aside prejudices to build relationships.
- James’s advice to Paul – James advised Paul to demonstrate he still lived according to the law to avoid offending Jewish believers (Acts 21:20-24). James asked Paul to adapt culturally.
Criticisms and Concerns with Incarnational Ministry
While most agree Christians should serve others and avoid unnecessary offenses, some raise cautions regarding incarnational ministry:
- Risk of syncretism – Adapting too much to another culture can lead to compromising beliefs or blending Christianity with elements of other religions.
- Different purpose from Jesus – While Jesus became human to live a perfect life and die for our sins, Christians cannot replicate His unique, divinely-empowered incarnation.
- Practical challenges – Leaving one’s community and fully immersing in another culture is difficult and may not be feasible or the best use of resources for some believers.
- Need for balance – Building relationships with non-believers is important but so is Christian fellowship and training (Hebrews 10:24-25). Both should be emphasized.
- High cost – Paul adapted his methods for evangelism but did not abandon his Jewish identity. Adapting too much culturally can lead Christians to sacrifice important parts of their faith and testimony.
In addition, some Christians feel focusing too heavily on incarnational concepts risks minimizing the divine message Christians are called to share. Believers can show the love of Christ in tangible ways without fully immersing in another culture or lifestyle.
Practical Applications and Forms of Incarnational Ministry
While some concerns exist, many agree with the basic principle that Christians should avoid unnecessary barriers in presenting the gospel and serving others. Some practical applications include:
- Learning about other cultures – Christians should seek to understand the experiences, values, and interests of those they seek to reach.
- Eating with non-Christians – Meals provide a non-threatening way to interact with others as Jesus did (Luke 5:29-32).
- Serving the poor – Christians can care for pressing physical needs that often open doors to discuss spiritual needs (Matthew 25:35-40).
- Using understandable language – Avoiding Christian jargon and adapting communication to connect with different audiences as Paul did (1 Corinthians 9:19-22).
- Living among a target community temporarily – Short-term missions teams often live in another culture while helping with practical needs and evangelism.
- Building friendships – Developing genuine relationships with non-Christians to better understand them and earn opportunities to share about Jesus.
Overall, the concept of incarnational ministry contains helpful principles for believers to apply wisely. As we follow Jesus’ example of serving humbly, connecting culturally, and lifting up God’s eternal truth, we can effectively communicate and live out the gospel in diverse contexts.
