"Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven." This verse serves as an important footnote to Mr. Huang's journey of faith. As a seasoned financial mentor with years of experience in the business world, Mr. Huang has taken a path that differs from many in how he lives out his beliefs.
Reflection on the "Jesus Guys" Phenomenon
"The nominal guys who often claim 'Jesus' are really harmful," Huang remarked bluntly.
Before embracing Christianity, Huang met numerous people who frequently spoke about Jesus. However, despite their seemingly spiritual language, their lives often lacked a genuine testimony of faith. Huang refers to these individuals, Christians who "talk the talk but can't live the faith out," as "Jesus guys."
It is concerning that those sent out by the church with good intentions to share the gospel gradually become the off-putting "Jesus guys." They would enthusiastically invite others to attend events, such as warm dinners or lively performances, but always concluded with an altar call for commitment to Jesus.
This blunt and utilitarian method of evangelism often made people feel uncomfortable, even causing resistance. Numerous people not only refused to return to church but even became averse to hearing the name of Jesus.
"If this approach were correct, why is the result so poor, and why are people so unwilling to accept it?" Huang questioned. "If everything is driven by a purpose, then it is incorrect."
Huang advocates influencing others through one's life and actions, which means preaching by living out the truth. He warns against becoming a "Jesus guy," who talks without acting and uses biblical truth to pressure others.
Building Friendships and Sowing Seeds of Faith
Huang has a gift for building deep, authentic relationships. Through his work in financial management and consulting, he has established initial trust with many clients. These professional relationships often evolve into genuine friendships, as he continues to keep in touch beyond the workplace. In relaxed conversations, Huang is able to discern people's needs and offer thoughtful, practical advice. His sincere care has earned him the respect of many, not only as a mentor but also as a trusted friend.
"Their problems become my problems," Huang shared. "They often come to me for advice on different matters. I frequently pray for them and offer guidance."
"Over time, I realized that the advice I give comes from the Bible," he thought. "Why not encourage them to go directly to the source and seek Jesus for themselves?" He gradually began introducing them to the Scriptures and guiding them toward understanding. Some began to accept his advice on seeking Jesus.
Subsequently, some would ask him, "Teacher, if I want to be like you, understanding the Bible and having God in my life, what should I do?"
Huang would simply respond, "You need to believe in Jesus."
When they asked how, he would patiently begin leading them on the path of faith.
Guiding Faith Requires "Going the Extra Mile"
"I realized that leading people to believe in Jesus doesn't mean 'pushing them into the water' or 'forcing a decision all at once,'" said Huang. "If you pressure them too much, it creates resistance. They'll stop listening and even avoid you when they see you."
Huang's method is "go the extra mile." He focuses on helping people with their real-life problems without initially mentioning Jesus or promoting religion. Once their needs are addressed, he says, they will return with "thirst."
He acknowledges that this journey of walking alongside others can be long and challenging, but through this companionship, many begin to transform, and faith in Christ often becomes a natural next step.
"When you consistently guide others using biblical principles, they live by the truth," Huang explained. "At that point, all that's left is for them to speak it out loud. Once they do, they have already transformed into the life of a mature believer." Huang noted, "This is not the way of a 'Jesus guys.' It's the way of influencing lives through your own life by being salt and light first."
A Different Kind of Faith Community—"Church on the Air"
Whether online or face to face, Huang has always upheld biblical principles in managing relationships. Therefore, he has influenced and guided many friends across various regions to come to faith in Jesus.
Just as a saying goes, "A tree grows into a forest without intention." As the number of believers continued to grow, the need to establish a church became inevitable. However, with members scattered across the country, Huang boldly pioneered a virtual faith platform for everyone to share and exchange—"Church on the Air."
Unlike traditional churches, an online church has no physical location. Its gatherings take place entirely online, except for one in-person annual meeting. The church emphasizes mutual support and living out faith in everyday life. Today, the members of the online church remain committed to studying the Bible and engaging in close fellowship. Their lives are also influencing family members, friends, and colleagues around them.
This "different kind of faith community" is redefining the possibilities of the contemporary church. Here, faith is no longer confined to doctrinal sermons but is expressed through authentic, lived testimony. The church is no longer just a building of bricks and mortar but a spiritual home where hearts connect and uplift one another.
Originally published by the Christian Times
- Edited by Katherine Guo and translated by Poppy Chan
