Relating the Mission of God to Demonstrating Intercultural Communication Skills
Introduction
In a world that is increasingly interconnected, the ability to communicate effectively across cultural boundaries is more important than ever. Intercultural communication skills—those that help us understand, relate to, and build trust with people from different cultural backgrounds—are essential for navigating both personal and professional interactions. These skills are not merely practical; they reflect the values of respect, empathy, and understanding that are deeply embedded in a biblical worldview. From a Christian perspective, communication is not just about exchanging information but about fostering relationships that reflect the love and mission of God. The Bible teaches that God’s mission is one of reconciliation, bringing together people from all nations, tribes, and languages under the gospel of Jesus Christ (Revelation 7:9). As Christians, we are called to participate in this mission by engaging in communication that builds trust and mutual understanding, respecting cultural differences while sharing the message of God’s love. By incorporating key intercultural communication concepts—such as active listening, cultural adaptability, non-verbal communication, and intercultural sensitivity—into our interactions, we can better embody the spirit of Christ’s mission in our diverse, multicultural world. The text below explores five key approaches to relating a biblical view of the mission of God to building trust and mutual understanding, using essential intercultural communication skills like listening, speaking, and perceptiveness to construct, explore, and negotiate meaning in meaningful ways.
1. Active Listening: Building Trust through Empathetic Understanding
Active listening is the foundational skill of effective communication, especially in intercultural settings. It involves not only hearing the words spoken but also making a conscious effort to understand the speaker’s emotional and cultural context. Active listening is integral to building trust because it demonstrates to the other person that their thoughts, experiences, and perspectives are valued. In intercultural communication, this goes beyond simply hearing the words; it requires an understanding of how cultural factors—such as tone, non-verbal cues, and even silence—affect meaning. From a biblical standpoint, active listening reflects God’s attentiveness to His people. God listens carefully to His followers, offering understanding, compassion, and guidance. Jesus’ interactions with others often modeled the essence of active listening, showing that true engagement requires empathy and attentiveness, not just hearing words.
Biblical Illustration:
In Mark 10:46-52, the story of Jesus healing blind Bartimaeus highlights active listening. Bartimaeus, a blind beggar, called out to Jesus as He passed by, and despite the crowd’s attempts to silence him, Jesus stopped and called for Bartimaeus to be brought to Him. Jesus asked him, “What do you want me to do for you?” This question may seem simple, but it shows how Jesus took the time to listen to Bartimaeus’ specific needs, despite the noise of the crowd. By engaging with Bartimaeus directly and attentively, Jesus not only healed his physical blindness but also showed deep care and compassion, listening to his cry amidst the crowd’s distractions.
Application to Everyday Life:
- In Multicultural Conversations
When engaging in a conversation with someone from a different cultural background, take extra time to listen without interruption, especially if they are sharing something that is important to them. Often, cultural differences may cause misunderstandings, so it’s crucial to ask clarifying questions, not to challenge or judge, but to genuinely seek to understand the person’s perspective. For example, if someone from a collectivist culture shares about family obligations, listen attentively to how they describe their responsibilities without offering solutions right away. - In Conflict Resolution
When resolving conflicts or misunderstandings in intercultural settings, practice active listening by focusing on the emotions and concerns of both parties. This can help ensure that all voices are heard, and that the resolution process respects cultural norms. For instance, in a workplace where people from various cultures work together, use active listening to understand how cultural values—such as hierarchy or individualism—affect each person’s approach to problem-solving or decision-making. This can foster an atmosphere of trust where people feel safe to express their true feelings.
2. Ethnorelativism: Respecting Cultural Differences through Culturally Sensitive Communication
Description: Ethnorelativism is the concept of understanding and appreciating another culture on its own terms, without comparing it to one’s own cultural norms. It is essential for building trust and reducing cultural biases, as it encourages the communicator to see the value in the differences they encounter, rather than viewing them through an ethnocentric lens. Ethnorelativism allows for greater appreciation of diversity, recognizing that different cultural norms and values are not inferior but simply different. In the context of God’s mission, ethnorelativism reflects the biblical truth that all cultures and peoples are precious in His sight, and that His Gospel transcends cultural boundaries. This mindset promotes genuine cross-cultural relationships, where differences are seen as opportunities to learn rather than obstacles to communication.
Biblical Illustration
In Matthew 15:21-28, the story of Jesus and the Canaanite woman illustrates the practice of ethnorelativism. Initially, Jesus seems to test the woman’s faith, but she responds in humility, recognizing the importance of Jesus’ mission. Jesus, seeing her great faith, praises her and grants her request. This story shows Jesus engaging with a Gentile woman—a cultural outsider in Jewish society—and responding to her with respect and understanding. Jesus does not impose Jewish cultural norms upon her; instead, He engages her faith within her context. This reflects God’s openness to all people, irrespective of cultural background, and His willingness to meet them where they are.
Application to Everyday Life:
- In Global Teams or Work Settings
In a multicultural work environment, recognizing and respecting the diversity of cultural norms is key to building effective teamwork. For example, in some cultures, decision-making is collective, while in others, it may be more individualistic. As a leader, you can show respect for these differences by involving team members in decision-making in ways that align with their cultural practices. By practicing ethnorelativism, you can encourage input and contributions from all team members, ensuring that everyone’s voice is respected. - In Cross-Cultural Mission or Outreach
When engaging in mission work or outreach in a foreign cultural context, avoid imposing your own cultural expectations on others. Instead, strive to understand the local customs, values, and communication styles. For example, when visiting a community with a strong tradition of hospitality, offer respect by understanding the role of guests and hosts within the local culture. This sensitivity will create opportunities for meaningful interactions, where the gospel can be communicated in ways that resonate with the values of the people you are reaching.
3. Cultural Adaptability: Shaping Communication Based on Context
Description: Cultural adaptability is the ability to adjust one’s communication style to suit the cultural norms and expectations of the listener. This requires an awareness of both verbal and non-verbal communication differences across cultures. What works in one cultural setting may not be effective in another, and being adaptable allows individuals to communicate in a way that is both respectful and effective. This concept is rooted in the idea that effective communication is not one-size-fits-all, but is shaped by the cultural context in which it occurs. From a biblical standpoint, adaptability reflects the missionary approach of Paul, who was flexible in his methods, yet unchanging in his message of the gospel. Cultural adaptability allows one to engage with others on their own terms, demonstrating humility and respect.
Biblical Illustration
In Acts 16:1-3, Paul’s decision to have Timothy circumcised is a clear example of cultural adaptability. Although Paul taught that circumcision was not necessary for salvation, he understood that it would be a cultural barrier to reaching Jewish communities. Timothy, being half-Jewish and half-Gentile, could have faced resistance from Jews who saw uncircumcised individuals as unclean. To avoid unnecessary offense and make their mission more effective among Jews, Paul decided Timothy should undergo circumcision, despite it not being required for salvation. Paul’s choice highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity in spreading the gospel. He was willing to adapt to cultural norms without compromising the core message of Christ. This shows how cultural practices, when viewed through the lens of mission, can be adapted to build trust and remove barriers. Paul’s decision underscores the principle of meeting people where they are while remaining faithful to the gospel’s message.
Application to Everyday Life:
- In Customer Service or Client Relations
In a setting where you work with clients from diverse backgrounds, adapt your communication style to meet their expectations. For instance, if you are dealing with clients from cultures that value formal titles and respectful address, be sure to use proper honorifics and be mindful of the appropriate level of formality in conversation. Conversely, in cultures that are more egalitarian, you may opt for a less formal, more friendly approach. By adjusting your tone, language, and behavior to fit the cultural context, you demonstrate respect and understanding, building stronger professional relationships. - In Social Gatherings or Community Events
When interacting with people from various cultural backgrounds at social gatherings or community events, observe and adapt to their cultural norms. If you are invited to a traditional celebration, you might need to modify your behavior, such as following dress codes or participating in rituals that are meaningful to the host culture. By adapting to these practices, you show that you honor their traditions, creating a foundation for mutual respect and deeper connections.
4. Non-Verbal Communication: Using Silence and Body Language to Build Rapport
Non-verbal communication plays a significant role in conveying meaning across cultures. This includes body language, facial expressions, gestures, and even the use of silence. In intercultural communication, understanding the role of non-verbal cues is essential, as they can either enhance or hinder the message being communicated. For example, a smile in one culture may signify friendliness, while in another it could be seen as insincere. Silence, too, may be interpreted differently: in some cultures, silence is a sign of respect or contemplation, while in others, it may signal discomfort or disinterest. In the biblical worldview, non-verbal communication is equally important, as it reflects the heart and intentions of the communicator. Just as God communicated His love through actions, Christians are called to reflect God’s love through thoughtful and intentional non-verbal communication.
Biblical Illustration:
In John 13:1-17, Jesus uses the act of washing His disciples’ feet to demonstrate the power of non-verbal communication. In a humble and intimate gesture, He performs a task typically reserved for the lowest servant, showing deep love, humility, and care without using words. This act speaks volumes, conveying more than a lecture ever could. By washing their feet, Jesus models the kind of relationship His disciples should have with one another—one of mutual love, respect, and sacrificial service. Jesus’ non-verbal communication emphasizes that true leadership is about serving others, not holding power. He instructs His disciples to follow His example, teaching that love and humility are best demonstrated through actions, not just words. This story highlights the power of non-verbal expressions in intercultural communication, showing that actions often speak louder than words in conveying respect and care. Through this act, Jesus sets a powerful example for how we should serve and communicate love to others.
Application to Everyday Life:
- In Cross-Cultural Negotiations
In situations like business negotiations or diplomatic dialogues, being attuned to non-verbal communication can make a significant difference. In some cultures, silence can be a sign of respect or deep thought, while in others it may be seen as discomfort or reluctance to engage. By observing body language—such as posture, eye contact, and hand gestures—you can better understand the other party’s comfort level and adjust your approach accordingly. For example, in some Asian cultures, prolonged eye contact may be seen as aggressive, while in many Western cultures, it is considered a sign of confidence and engagement. - In Emotional Support or Counseling
When offering emotional support or counseling in an intercultural context, pay close attention to the body language and unspoken cues of the person you are engaging with. In some cultures, individuals may not openly express their emotions through words but may do so through their posture, facial expressions, or even the tone of their voice. By being perceptive to these non-verbal signs, you can provide a more compassionate and appropriate response, creating a safe space for the other person to share their feelings and experiences.
5. Intercultural Sensitivity: Building Mutual Understanding through Dialogue and Reflection
Intercultural sensitivity involves being aware of cultural differences and adjusting one’s behavior to avoid misunderstandings and foster mutual respect. It requires a high level of self-awareness and reflection on one’s own cultural biases and assumptions. This approach emphasizes open-mindedness and humility, recognizing that learning about and engaging with other cultures is an ongoing process. Intercultural sensitivity also involves being proactive in creating opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue, where people can share their experiences and perspectives. In the mission of God, intercultural sensitivity is vital, as the gospel transcends cultural boundaries, calling Christians to engage in meaningful dialogue with all people groups.
Biblical Illustration
In Acts 8:26-40, the story of Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch illustrates intercultural sensitivity. Philip, following the guidance of the Holy Spirit, encounters the eunuch, a high-ranking official from Ethiopia who is reading the Scriptures but does not understand them fully. Despite the cultural and racial differences between Philip, a Jewish Christian, and the Ethiopian eunuch, Philip approaches him with an open heart and mind, seeking to understand his confusion and offering guidance. Philip engages the eunuch in a respectful dialogue, explaining the Scripture and revealing the gospel of Jesus. This interaction is marked by sensitivity to the eunuch’s cultural context, and through this engagement, the eunuch is baptized, marking a significant moment in the expansion of the gospel across cultural lines. Philip’s willingness to engage and explain the gospel across cultural boundaries exemplifies the heart of intercultural sensitivity in spreading God’s message.
Application to Everyday Life:
- In Intercultural Education or Training
If you are involved in teaching or leading a workshop for a diverse group, create opportunities for participants to share their cultural experiences and perspectives. Encourage open dialogue where individuals feel free to express their cultural norms, values, and worldviews. This exchange fosters intercultural sensitivity, helping everyone in the group become more aware of their own biases while learning to appreciate others’ perspectives. For example, in a diversity training session, you might invite participants to share how cultural traditions shape their view of leadership or teamwork, which can help build mutual understanding and respect. - In Multicultural Conflict Mediation
When mediating conflicts between individuals from different cultural backgrounds, actively listen to both sides and show an awareness of their cultural contexts. People from different cultures may approach conflict resolution differently; some may prefer direct confrontation, while others may avoid confrontation in favor of indirect communication. By understanding these cultural tendencies and adapting your mediation style to accommodate them, you can create an environment where both parties feel understood and valued, leading to more successful conflict resolution and long-term mutual respect.
Conclusion
The integration of intercultural communication skills with a biblical worldview offers a powerful framework for building trust, fostering understanding, and reconciling differences. As Christians, our mission is aligned with God’s broader mission to unite people from all cultures and backgrounds under the banner of His love and grace. The five approaches discussed—active listening, cultural adaptability, ethnorelativism, non-verbal communication, and intercultural sensitivity—are all essential tools for engaging in meaningful dialogue that transcends cultural boundaries. Through these practices, we not only improve our ability to communicate effectively in diverse settings but also embody the heart of God’s mission on earth. As we listen attentively, speak with integrity, and remain open to learning from others, we become instruments of peace and understanding, reflecting Christ’s love to a fractured world. The call to cross cultural divides is not just about improving communication skills; it is about participating in God’s work of reconciliation and demonstrating His love to all people. By embracing intercultural communication, we participate in God’s mission to heal divisions, build bridges, and share the gospel across every nation and culture, ultimately drawing all people closer to the heart of God.
Dr. Curt Watke is a distinguished missiologist whose three-plus-decade-long career has significantly impacted Christian mission work in North America, particularly in under-reached and challenging regions. Holding a Ph.D. in Evangelism and Missions, Dr. Watke has focused on bridging cultural gaps and fostering sustainable Christian communities by developing innovative strategies that address contemporary challenges like globalization, urbanization, and religious pluralism. His emphasis on cultural sensitivity and contextualization in mission work is reflected in his collaborative writings, including notable works such as “Ministry Context Exploration: Understanding North American Cultures” and “Starting Reproducing Congregations.” Beyond his writing, Dr. Watke is a sought-after speaker and educator, lecturing at seminaries and conferences worldwide, and his teachings continue to inspire and equip new generations of missional leaders. His enduring legacy is marked by unwavering dedication to the mission of God and a profound influence on missional thought and practice. Dr. Watke serves as President and Professor of Evangelism & Missiology at Missional University.
