POLITICAL PROBLEM
OR
SPIRITUAL SOLUTION?

Volume 1 1989

A tall Black man was horrifying a group of Germans with his stories of ‘oppression in Namibia.’

“When were you last in South West Africa/Namibia?” I asked.

“Well, ah, er, some time ago.”

“How long ago?”

“A few years or so,” he looked uncomfortable.

“Try visiting it sometime — you’ll find it’s completely different from the place you’ve been describing.” The crowd around us laughed and the SWAPO member showed real anger.

“Don’t you support the implementation of UN. Resolution 435 and free elections leading to a SWAPO government?” he challenged me.

“No, as a missionary I have no faith in sinful human nature or man-made solutions. I believe that the only solution for the problems of our world is for individuals to repent of their rebellion against the Creator and turn to Christ. Only in obeying the Bible will we make this world a better place.”

He swore and demanded, “Do you support apartheid?”

“I am against sin—against greed, hatred, bitterness, jealousy and selfishness — no matter which side or ideology produces it. Now let me ask you a question? Are you a Christian?”

“I am against apartheid.”

“Fine, so is our State President. The question is — do you love Jesus?”

He swore, “I am the son of a bishop.”

“That means little these days. Do you regularly read the Bible and follow the example of Jesus?”

He cursed me and, with tears of frustration, dramatically declared: “I am a victim of apartheid!”

I stepped back in surprise and looked at his crocodile shoes, expensive clothes, gold watch and rings, and gold-rimmed glasses. “Victim?” I chuckled, “My friend, you look more like a victim of materialism.” At this the crowd around us burst into laughter and the SWAPO supporter withdrew in anger.

This left me with the opportunity to present the Gospel challenge in answer to the questions of the interested bystanders.