Can a Christian from the West share the Gospel with those in poorer parts of the world without causing offence? Will he or she not be seen as extending the power and dominance of his society? Medical mission medicine might even be accepted reluctantly because of the message that goes with it. How much of the violence in the world is a response to the perceived threat of Christianity? How many brothers and sisters suffer because of the way we present the gospel?

There is an offence that it may not be possible to avoid. The gospel is about restoring a right relationship with God and a just relationship with other men and women. Unless an d until we understand and want that restoration for ourselves we all are offended by the gospel and reject it. This is the offence of the Cross which Jesus faced and for which he died and rose victorious for a fallen world. The good news is not ours to abuse. Anything we do that makes it appear to be a tool used to control other people is a needless offence causing antagonism that can destroy relationships with God and man. The Christian health professional has a God given opportunity to go with the gospel in a servant role. Neither medicine nor the Gospel ought ever to be imposed but rather offered with a sympathy, understanding and respect that make the offer genuine.