You have been called by God to spread His Word, seeking the lost and training the found. This could mean going beyond your own borders. To effectively carry out this mission, you will need to understand the cultures, beliefs and languages of other people. In today’s blog post, Global University explains how our Intercultural Studies program can prepare you for a worldwide Easter celebration.
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Cross-Cultural Communication
God wants you to do more than just speak the language when you’re spreading the Gospel. You must also understand the culture in which you live. What may seem socially appropriate to you could be deeply offensive in another culture. In the Intercultural Studies program, you will learn how culture and communication relate to one another.
For instance, while other cultures have accepted Jesus as their Savior and practice Christianity, their celebration may look different, even bizarre, compared to Western cultural celebrations.
Germany, Austria, Hungary & Poland. These areas, as well as others, use the egg as the primary symbol of the resurrection. They make Easter egg trees by hanging brightly-decorated eggs from tree limbs as a symbol of new life.
Bermuda. Believers celebrate by flying colorful kites in the air, representing the ascension of Christ into heaven.
Spain. The celebration begins on Maundy Thursday with a dance called Dansa de la Mort where participants dress in skeleton outfits to represent the last supper and Christ’s death.
As Easter approaches, educate yourself about the culture and customs where you live. Introducing Christ to a culture unfamiliar to Him can be a challenge, but when done correctly, it will open doors to new conversation and a chance to educate and change lives.
Evangelizing to All People
We all want to feel connected to one another. This is often achieved through sharing: sharing our feelings, thoughts and experiences. As a Christian and a disciple, you know this as “witnessing.” In this way, you are sharing your knowledge and your experience as a Christian with others. You are spreading the Gospel of Jesus in a relevant way.
The Intercultural Studies Program at Global University teaches you how to do this with all people in a way they can understand, regardless of their language. This means being able to introduce and celebrate Easter, and other important Christian celebrations, with people around the world.
Why We Evangelize at Easter
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:18-20).
It is this command that the Assemblies of God church follows while we practice evangelism. The Easter season is the perfect time to witness to others the rebirth and forgiveness you have experienced. For those seeking grace and forgiveness, there is no better time than Easter to step onto the path Jesus set before us and follow Him.
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Intercultural Studies at Global University
Global University and the Assemblies of God believe in the Pentecostal tradition. This means spreading the word of Jesus by any means placed upon us by the Holy Spirit. Traditionally, Pentecost was when God blessed the disciples with speaking in foreign languages so they could counsel people in any land. Our intercultural studies courses continue that tradition in modern times. Contact Global University or call (toll-free) 1-800-443-1083 for more information.