Christian professors have the power to change lives

In this short article, I present the perspective that can be spiritual change agents in universities and colleges. They operate on an evangelical field which could be the driving force for gospel revival. Christian professors have an incredible but little exploited power to change society today. This claim centers on several points that we examine in this short read.

Christian academics have knowledge from both perspectives
They have Human knowledge of science and the biblical perspective. They have knowledge of the credibility of the biblical story of creation. Christian academics would know that the bible is the only book that presents a detailed picture and timeline of the creation of the world. Thus, they can expose the strengths and limitations of science. They are aware that the biblical story of creation set out in Genesis 1 does not change: that is that God created Heaven and Earth. He created man and woman.
The Apostle Paul also reminds us this story of creation in Roman 1: 19-20 in the following terms:
Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.

This claim starts from the axiomatic acceptance of God, or a higher authority than man, as we established in our previous sessions.


Christian professors operate in a fertile ground for evangelism
They have direct access to millions of people, both students, administrators or other professors who may not have the access to the knowledge of the world put forward in the Bible. Knowledge of this detail can provide food for thought and a dialectic analysis of the findings and claims of science. Christian professors have access to this large body of people who may be burdened by different issues in life. These issues could easily be brought to the feet of Jesus Christ to carry them. In today’s pressurized world, Christian professors come in contact with many students who experience mental health issues, low self-esteem, physical ailments, etc. which are issues that Jesus advises that we bring to him.

If Christian professors were able to signpost people to our great Counsellor Jesus Christ, those facing issues will be discharged, for the knowledge of the truth sets people free.


How can Christian professors pass on the Gospel in the face of adversity?
This is a critical question. We explained in earlier videos how Christians in universities and colleges face stiff opposition and suppression of the Christianity. But there are several ways in which to convey the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Such strategies include:
 Christian professors can use examples from the bible to illustration their lessons or answers to student query. It is clear that the bible is the biggest book of ethics and social contract we can have. We explained in our discussion last week that Jesus is a Moral Champion and mentioned some of the basic social rule that Jesus command, which can make our lives on earth better. The bible encapsulates key sociological thoughts, psychological interventions, legal frameworks, economic thoughts, medical prescriptions, and spiritual guidance.

 Christian professors can lead the way by example, e.g. show examples of compassion, concerns for students in need, respect for others, thirst for equality and probity, etc. Our behaviours in our universities are some of the most powerful ways to embed the Gospel in our daily organizational life.

 Christian professors can have Christian artefacts displayed in their own office or door, if that is possible. A picture of the cross or painting of a church building, etc. could be powerful exhibits that trigger questions in visitors’ minds. I remember being asked by visitors or colleagues if I was a Christian. This question allowed me to engage the enquirer with the Gospel.

Why some academics are hesitant?
We cannot be ashamed of the gospel if we are convinced that it is the true word of God that regulate our societies and save us. The Apostle Paul encourages us with his own example of conveying the gospel in the face of adversity:

Roman 1 v 16: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile”.

Paul also reassures that we have the power to withstand adversity:
2 Timothy 1 v 7: “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control”.

To succeed Christian academics will need courage and boldness. Professor Hack-Polay explores this further in our Facebook and YouTube channels.

Follow us on YouTube at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8lyNzLXR-Xs
Follow us on Facebook at:
https://fb.watch/iMIexcHk6p/