What practical steps could be taken to build a relationship with a follower of this worldview who might be a co-worker, neighbor etc.?
For one to have a positive as well as productive relationship with any other person, especially a Buddhist, the first priority would be to recognize their worldviews. In addition, critical thinking should be applied in the process of this recognition. Through critical thinking, one will be able to attain a deeper understanding as well as acceptance towards the Buddhists. As a result, both parties will be able to build trust towards each other. Tashi (2014) explains that individuals need to evaluate the main reason as to why they are establishing relationships, is it because of self-interest or because of love. This notion is essential in helping one to identify the best approach for establishing a relationship. Therefore, in order to build a positive relationship towards the Buddhist, one would need to not be judgmental but focus more on the good side of the Buddhist. This is because we are all human beings and no one is perfect. In addition, one should be positive, kind and helpful towards the other religion.
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What barriers/hindrances would exist with presenting the Christian gospel to a person from this worldview?
The biggest hindrance that a Christian would experience when spreading the gospel to a Buddhist would be the different perspectives. Both the Christians and Buddhists have different standpoints that may sometimes clash with the other and create barriers that are difficult to overcome. For instance, the Buddhists may view Christian God as one who has an attachment to ego due to the emotions that God has shown. Some of these emotions may include love, and anger. In addition, there are some Buddhists who do not believe in God or even sin but they believe in karma. Therefore, it might be difficult to overcome some of the barriers that Buddhism religion poses to Christianity.
What personal challenges might you have with presenting the gospel?
The biggest personal challenge would be preaching to the people. It is difficult to convince another person that their faith is wrongly placed and that they may perish if they do not follow your religion. In this situation, it would be difficult to explain to a Buddhist that that Jesus Christ is the solution to all the problems and the answer to all questions without trying to show them that you are wiser than them. The bible itself states that God will destroy the wisdom of the wise and reduce the understanding of the prudent to nothing (1 Corinthians 1:18-21 (KJV) ). Who are the wise? Has God already destroyed the world in such a way that they do not know him? Maybe God is pleased that people are attempting the foolishness of preaching to the believers.
References
Holy Bible King James Version
Tashi, T. G. (2014). Awakening Mind: The Foundation of Buddhist Thought . Wisdom Publications.
