How to Be a Redemptive Change AgentSample

How to Be a Redemptive Change Agent in Your Community

But Peter said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I do have I give to you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk!” (Acts 3:6 ESV).

The lame man was only doing what those suffering profound bodily ills could do: beg (see Acts 3:3). Most people salve their consciences by tossing a coin or some currency their way, and then move on. But, Peter stopped and assessed the situation. The implicit question forming in his soul was this: How can I help solve this man’s problem while also giving him a glimpse of the Kingdom? In that moment, Peter acted as a redemptive change agent by solving a real problem and making God’s Kingdom real.

Look about your community, your broader society, or your state or nation: Of the many crying needs, which one can God best use you to address? Once you settle on a need, then analyze the underlying causes that led to this problem while also determining how a Christian worldview informs the solution. Discuss your findings with one or more trusted Christian friends. Ask them if they know of anyone who is trying to solve that problem and who may be looking for a partner in the work. If no one is offering a solution, consider doing so yourself. Invite Christian friends to pray for you and join you as Christian problem-solvers. Then, do it (work on solving the problem) while conducting regular reviews of your work and making others aware of what you are doing.

Just as the lame man’s neighbors were “filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him” (Acts 3:10), so may others praise God because you dared to be a redemptive change agent in your community.