RESTORE

This chapter from the BFG Handbook (Christian Edition of the Tao Te Ching) presents the gospel through a new "Expression" of God’s Love to restore the Truth.

Chapter 60: Body of Light

 

Ruling a country is like cooking a small fish with care
When we rule according to the Word of God
Our inner darkness has no power to harm a

Not that inner darkness has no power b
But its power cannot harm a body filled with the light of God

Not only does it not harm a
The Master does not harm 

Since neither is doing harm c
Oneness is restored for a common purpose

 

a John 8:12; b Luke 11:34-36; c 1 Peter 5:6-11; Romans 12:14-21.



RENEWAL

The Trinitarian Method (M.A.P.) is the framework for Renewal, where God’s Love shapes our MINDSET, Trust in the Son directs our AIM, and Faith in the Holy Spirit guides our PRACTICE.

Mindset:

1. Ruling with Care, Like Cooking a Small Fish

  • Line from the Chapter: “Ruling a country is like cooking a small fish with care.”
  • Mindset: Approach leadership with patience, humility, and mindfulness.
  • Explanation: In today’s fast-paced world, the mindset of careful, gentle leadership is essential. Rather than rushing into decisions or reacting impulsively, we should take time to understand the needs and concerns of those we lead. Just as cooking a small fish requires care to avoid overcooking or damaging it, leadership requires attentiveness and understanding to avoid harming those under our care.
  • Real-World Application: In your workplace, ministry, or family, consider the impact of your decisions before acting. Practice listening to others, taking time to reflect, and making decisions that are well-considered rather than rash. For instance, in business leadership, carefully evaluate the consequences of decisions on employees, customers, and stakeholders before moving forward.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
    • “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

2. Inner Darkness Has No Power When Filled with God’s Light

  • Line from the Chapter: “When we rule according to the Word of God, our inner darkness has no power to harm.”
  • Mindset: Cultivate inner peace through the Word of God, focusing on the light of Christ rather than the darkness around you.
  • Explanation: A Christian leader’s mindset should be firmly rooted in God’s Word and His truth. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, our focus must be on God’s light. When our hearts are filled with His truth, the darkness of sin, fear, and evil has no influence on us.
  • Real-World Application: In any leadership role or in personal struggles, start each day in prayer and meditation on Scripture. This prepares your heart to face challenges with the light of Christ. For example, when facing a difficult situation at work, take time to pray and reflect on God’s guidance, so you can respond with wisdom and peace rather than anxiety or anger.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8)
    • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

3. The Power of Darkness Cannot Harm the Body of Christ

  • Line from the Chapter: “Not that inner darkness has no power, but its power cannot harm a body filled with the light of God.”
  • Mindset: Understand that while darkness exists, the power of God’s light within you makes you invincible against evil.
  • Explanation: Our mindset should reflect the truth that, although challenges and temptations are a part of life, they cannot defeat us when we are rooted in Christ. As believers, we are part of the body of Christ, and the power of His Spirit in us is greater than any force of darkness.
  • Real-World Application: In challenging situations, remind yourself that you are equipped to overcome because of the Holy Spirit within you. Whether you’re dealing with personal temptations or external challenges like a difficult workplace or hostile environment, rely on God’s strength. For instance, a Christian leader facing opposition in the workplace can draw strength from their faith and trust that God is with them, enabling them to stand firm.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
    • “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

4. The Master Does Not Harm

  • Line from the Chapter: “The Master does not harm.”
  • Mindset: Adopt a mindset of peace and non-retaliation, focused on serving others with love and kindness.
  • Explanation: The leader who follows Christ is called to serve, not harm. This means practicing humility, forgiving those who wrong us, and seeking to reconcile rather than retaliate. In today’s world, where people often respond to conflict with aggression or harshness, the Christian leader’s mindset should be to embody Christ’s love and mercy.
  • Real-World Application: In interactions with others, choose kindness over harshness. For example, if someone criticizes or opposes you, instead of responding defensively, extend grace and seek a peaceful resolution. In the workplace, if faced with conflict or negativity, aim to respond with empathy and a willingness to understand the other person’s point of view.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
    • “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” (Romans 12:17)

5. Oneness Restored for a Common Purpose

  • Line from the Chapter: “Since neither is doing harm, oneness is restored for a common purpose.”
  • Mindset: Embrace unity and work toward the common good, fostering collaboration and shared vision.
  • Explanation: The mindset here is one of unity, where every action is aimed at restoring harmony and working together for the greater good. In a world that often emphasizes division and competition, the Christian leader is called to seek reconciliation and unity. Whether in family life, church, or the workplace, this mindset fosters peace and purpose.
  • Real-World Application: In team environments, focus on building unity and trust. Actively work toward common goals and be a peacemaker, ensuring that all parties are heard and valued. For instance, in church ministry or a community organization, focus on a shared vision of service and spiritual growth, rather than allowing differences to create division.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
    • “Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19)

To embody the principles of this chapter, the mindset we adopt should reflect patience, peace, humility, and unity. We are called to lead with care, be filled with God’s light, choose peace over harm, and pursue oneness for the greater good. These mindsets help us navigate the challenges of today’s world while staying true to God’s purpose for our lives. As we lead with these principles, we can impact our communities, workplaces, and families with love, grace, and unity, fulfilling God’s calling in a broken world.

AIM:

1. Ruling with Care, Like Cooking a Small Fish

  • Line from the Chapter: “Ruling a country is like cooking a small fish with care.”
  • Aim: Aim for gentle leadership with patience and mindfulness.
  • Explanation: The goal is to lead with wisdom and care, avoiding rash or heavy-handed actions. Leadership should be approached with thoughtfulness, humility, and a focus on long-term growth, much like the delicate handling required when cooking a small fish. By leading with care, we aim to preserve the well-being of others and ensure that our influence nurtures rather than harms.
  • Real-World Application: In every leadership context—whether at work, in ministry, or within your family—aim to make decisions that are thoughtful and considerate, ensuring that your actions foster positive growth and well-being for those involved. For example, a manager should aim to make decisions that support the development and happiness of their team rather than simply achieving short-term goals.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
    • “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

2. Inner Darkness Cannot Harm When Filled with God’s Light

  • Line from the Chapter: “When we rule according to the Word of God, our inner darkness has no power to harm.”
  • Aim: Aim to be filled with the light of God’s Word to overcome inner darkness.
  • Explanation: When we align our actions and decisions with God’s Word, we ensure that we remain guided by His truth and light, which helps us resist the temptations and struggles of the world. Our aim should be to consistently stay in the Word, letting God’s truth illuminate our hearts and minds, so that darkness—whether in the form of doubt, sin, or negativity—has no power over us.
  • Real-World Application: In daily life, aim to start each day with prayer and meditation on Scripture. This will center your heart on God’s will and prepare you to face challenges with His peace. For example, before making a difficult decision, take time to reflect on God’s Word and seek His guidance, trusting that His light will help you navigate the situation.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
    • “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8)

3. The Power of Darkness Cannot Harm the Body of Christ

  • Line from the Chapter: “Not that inner darkness has no power, but its power cannot harm a body filled with the light of God.”
  • Aim: Aim to be a part of the Body of Christ, filled with His light, and to remain strong in faith.
  • Explanation: Our aim is to understand that, as part of the Body of Christ, we are supported by His strength and light. The darkness of the world may attempt to weaken or discourage us, but when we are united in Christ and rooted in His light, the power of darkness has no influence. By nurturing our relationship with Christ and with one another, we become strong in the face of adversity.
  • Real-World Application: Actively engage in the community of believers to strengthen your faith and build support networks. Regular church attendance, fellowship, and prayer groups help to maintain the collective strength of the Body of Christ. For instance, when facing challenges, reach out to fellow believers for encouragement and prayer, knowing that together, we are stronger than the darkness around us.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
    • “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

4. The Master Does Not Harm

  • Line from the Chapter: “The Master does not harm.”
  • Aim: Aim to serve and lead without causing harm, always seeking peace.
  • Explanation: The goal is to lead with kindness and humility, refusing to retaliate or harm others, even when wronged. A leader who follows Christ is called to emulate His non-violent, loving nature, striving to bring peace, healing, and reconciliation wherever possible. This aim requires intentionality in relationships and leadership, choosing grace over judgment and service over power.
  • Real-World Application: In personal or professional conflicts, aim to resolve issues with a spirit of peace rather than through confrontation or harm. For example, if a colleague is unkind, instead of responding in anger, approach them with empathy and offer forgiveness, seeking a peaceful resolution that restores relationship and unity.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
    • “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” (Romans 12:17)

5. Oneness Restored for a Common Purpose

  • Line from the Chapter: “Since neither is doing harm, oneness is restored for a common purpose.”
  • Aim: Aim to restore unity for the common good of all.
  • Explanation: The aim here is to prioritize the greater good over personal interests, seeking unity and peace for a common purpose. When we act with a mindset of reconciliation and love, we restore harmony, not only within ourselves but also within our communities. This requires humility, cooperation, and a focus on shared goals, especially when navigating differences or conflicts.
  • Real-World Application: Aim to bring unity to any situation by focusing on common goals and shared values. For example, in a workplace conflict, try to find a solution that benefits everyone, encouraging collaboration and mutual respect. In church ministry, work together to fulfill the mission of serving others and sharing the gospel, prioritizing unity over division.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
    • “Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19)

In today’s world, we should aim for leadership that is gentle, mindful, and guided by God’s truth, focusing on unity and peace. These principles encourage us to lead with care, to let the light of God guide our actions, and to work together for the common good. By keeping our eyes on these goals, we can navigate the complexities of modern life with grace and integrity, restoring harmony and fulfilling God’s purpose for our lives and communities.

Practice:

1. Ruling with Care, Like Cooking a Small Fish

  • Line from the Chapter: “Ruling a country is like cooking a small fish with care.”
  • Practice: Practice patient and thoughtful decision-making, being mindful of the impact your actions have on others.
  • Explanation: To fulfill your purpose in God’s way, you must lead with care, taking time to understand the needs and concerns of those around you. The practice of careful consideration, like cooking a small fish gently, requires wisdom and attention to detail. This involves recognizing that leadership is not about exerting control but about nurturing and guiding others.
  • Real-World Application: Whether you are leading in your family, community, or workplace, practice reflecting on decisions before acting. Seek counsel when needed, and approach challenges with a heart of empathy. For example, if you manage a team, practice listening to your employees and consider their well-being before making decisions that affect them.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
    • “For the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve.” (Mark 10:45)

2. Inner Darkness Cannot Harm When Filled with God’s Light

  • Line from the Chapter: “When we rule according to the Word of God, our inner darkness has no power to harm.”
  • Practice: Practice filling your mind and heart with the Word of God and seeking His presence to dispel inner darkness.
  • Explanation: To live according to the Way of God, we must actively cultivate an inner life grounded in His truth and light. This means consistently reading Scripture, praying, and meditating on God’s promises to overcome the distractions and temptations of the world. The practice of being filled with His light will help guard your heart against the influences of darkness, enabling you to remain steadfast in your faith and purpose.
  • Real-World Application: Make it a daily habit to read the Bible, pray, and meditate on God’s truth. When faced with difficult situations, consciously draw from God’s light and let His Word guide your responses. For example, if you feel overwhelmed by stress or negativity, take a moment to pray and recall a verse that brings peace, such as Philippians 4:6-7.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
    • “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light.” (Ephesians 5:8)

3. The Power of Darkness Cannot Harm the Body of Christ

  • Line from the Chapter: “Not that inner darkness has no power, but its power cannot harm a body filled with the light of God.”
  • Practice: Practice cultivating unity and fellowship within the Body of Christ, supporting one another in faith.
  • Explanation: As part of the Body of Christ, you are called to strengthen and encourage one another. The practice of unity within the church and the Christian community is essential for withstanding the power of darkness. When we are united in Christ, supporting each other in prayer, worship, and fellowship, we collectively become stronger against external and internal struggles.
  • Real-World Application: Engage in fellowship with other believers through church activities, small groups, or community outreach. Encourage one another in faith and serve together for a common purpose. For example, if a fellow believer is struggling with doubt or fear, offer words of encouragement, pray together, and remind them of God’s promises.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
    • “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5)

4. The Master Does Not Harm

  • Line from the Chapter: “The Master does not harm.”
  • Practice: Practice showing love and grace in all situations, refraining from harm and retaliation.
  • Explanation: In fulfilling your purpose according to God’s way, you are called to embody Christ’s example of non-violence, grace, and forgiveness. The practice of not retaliating or harming others, even when wronged, reflects the heart of Jesus, who came to serve and love, not to harm. This is about showing mercy, extending forgiveness, and seeking reconciliation in the face of conflict.
  • Real-World Application: In situations where you face criticism, conflict, or mistreatment, choose the path of love and forgiveness. Instead of responding with anger or defensiveness, practice compassion and seek peaceful resolutions. For example, if someone at work undermines you, respond with kindness and, if possible, a willingness to understand their perspective.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
    • “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.” (Romans 12:17)

5. Oneness Restored for a Common Purpose

  • Line from the Chapter: “Since neither is doing harm, oneness is restored for a common purpose.”
  • Practice: Practice fostering unity and reconciliation for a shared, higher purpose.
  • Explanation: The practice of oneness involves working together with others toward a common goal. In today’s world, where division and discord are common, Christians are called to restore unity by focusing on shared values and purposes, particularly the mission of Christ. This practice of pursuing reconciliation and building unity reflects God’s desire for His people to work together for His glory.
  • Real-World Application: In all areas of life, aim to be a peacemaker and restore unity where there is division. Whether in your family, church, or workplace, practice actively listening to others, acknowledging differences, and working collaboratively to achieve shared goals. For example, in a team project, foster cooperation and encourage everyone to contribute, focusing on the collective success rather than personal differences.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
    • “Let us make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.” (Romans 14:19)

To fulfill your purpose according to the Way of God in modern times, you must practice leadership with care, fill your heart with God’s light, nurture unity in the Body of Christ, embody non-retaliation, and actively work toward reconciliation and a common purpose. By practicing these principles, you align your life with God’s will, impacting your relationships, communities, and the world with His love, peace, and truth.



RESPOND

Renewal brings the transformation of our spirit with a new ardor, empowering us to confidently proclaim the Gospel and make disciples of all nations.

1. Ruling with Care, Like Cooking a Small Fish

  • Line from the Chapter: “Ruling a country is like cooking a small fish with care.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
    • Islam: “The best of you are those who are the most beneficial to others.” (Hadith)
    • Buddhism: “May all beings be happy; may all beings be without disease.” (Buddha)
    • Hinduism: “One who treats all beings alike, be they friends, companions, or strangers, is said to have reached the highest state.” (Bhagavad Gita 6:9)
  • How This Unites Us: Across all major religions, there is a shared principle that leadership should be approached with humility, care, and service. The common understanding is that those in positions of influence or authority should exercise their power responsibly, not for self-interest, but for the well-being of others. This universal teaching transcends specific doctrines and encourages ethical leadership for the common good.
  • Real-World Application: Regardless of your position in life—whether as a parent, employer, or community leader—this principle calls for you to lead with patience and a sense of responsibility, considering the impact of your decisions on others. For example, a business leader might aim to foster an environment of fairness and care for employees, ensuring that policies benefit the whole organization, not just a select few.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “The greatest among you will be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
    • “The best of you are those who are the most beneficial to others.” (Hadith)

2. Inner Darkness Cannot Harm When Filled with God’s Light

  • Line from the Chapter: “When we rule according to the Word of God, our inner darkness has no power to harm.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
    • Islam: “Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.” (Quran 24:35)
    • Buddhism: “May the light of wisdom dispel the darkness of ignorance.” (Buddha)
    • Hinduism: “When meditation is mastered, the mind is unwavering like the flame of a lamp in a windless place.” (Bhagavad Gita 6:19)
  • How This Unites Us: The metaphor of light overcoming darkness is present in many religious traditions, symbolizing the victory of wisdom, truth, and divine guidance over ignorance, evil, and chaos. All religions recognize the power of divine light to cleanse the soul, guide moral conduct, and protect from harmful influences. This common understanding promotes a universal appeal to align one’s life with spiritual wisdom and truth.
  • Real-World Application: In daily life, this teaching encourages us to prioritize spiritual disciplines such as prayer, meditation, and reflection on sacred texts. By doing so, we allow God’s light to guide our decisions and protect us from negative influences. For instance, when making a difficult decision, one might take time to reflect on spiritual teachings and pray for clarity, trusting that God’s light will reveal the right path.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)
    • “Allah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.” (Quran 24:35)

3. The Power of Darkness Cannot Harm the Body of Christ

  • Line from the Chapter: “Not that inner darkness has no power, but its power cannot harm a body filled with the light of God.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
    • Islam: “Indeed, with every difficulty there is relief.” (Quran 94:6)
    • Buddhism: “When you realize nothing is lacking, the whole world belongs to you.” (Lao Tzu)
    • Hinduism: “The soul is neither born, and nor does it die.” (Bhagavad Gita 2:20)
  • How This Unites Us: The understanding that darkness (spiritual or existential) cannot harm those who are spiritually fortified is shared across religions. Each tradition acknowledges that when one is connected to divine truth, grace, or the enlightened path, they are shielded from the destructive forces of fear, suffering, or temptation. This universal truth reminds us of the inner strength provided by faith or spiritual wisdom, reinforcing resilience in the face of challenges.
  • Real-World Application: When facing adversity, whether in the form of personal struggle or societal challenges, this principle encourages you to draw on your faith, believing that your spiritual strength will help you overcome. For example, during a time of personal loss, you may find solace in prayer, meditation, or spiritual community, trusting that divine light and support will carry you through.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “Greater is he that is in you than he that is in the world.” (1 John 4:4)
    • “Indeed, with every difficulty there is relief.” (Quran 94:6)

4. The Master Does Not Harm

  • Line from the Chapter: “The Master does not harm.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
    • Islam: “Repel evil with that which is better.” (Quran 41:34)
    • Buddhism: “Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love.” (Buddha)
    • Hinduism: “One who is free from anger, who has renounced hatred, and has self-control, is fit for liberation.” (Bhagavad Gita 16:3)
  • How This Unites Us: This principle of not causing harm and responding to negativity with kindness and love is central to all major religions. Whether it’s the Christian call to love your enemies, the Buddhist teaching of overcoming hatred with compassion, or the Quranic instruction to repel evil with good, the focus is on non-violence and mercy. These shared teachings form a common ethical foundation that binds humanity together, regardless of religious background.
  • Real-World Application: In any situation where you feel wronged or mistreated, this principle calls for you to respond with empathy, patience, and grace. For example, in a workplace dispute, instead of retaliating, practice patience and seek peaceful resolution. Reflecting the love and forgiveness taught by many religions helps promote harmony and healing in all relationships.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)
    • “Repel evil with that which is better.” (Quran 41:34)

5. Oneness Restored for a Common Purpose

  • Line from the Chapter: “Since neither is doing harm, oneness is restored for a common purpose.”
  • Parallel Religious Teachings:
    • Christianity: “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
    • Islam: “Hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.” (Quran 3:103)
    • Buddhism: “May all beings be happy; may all beings be without disease.” (Buddha)
    • Hinduism: “The whole world is one family.” (Bhagavad Gita 10:20)
  • How This Unites Us: The idea that we are all united for a higher purpose is universal across religions. Each tradition teaches that humanity is called to unity, whether it’s in worship, service, or spiritual practice. The shared vision of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect transcends doctrinal differences, showing that all religions encourage working together for the common good.
  • Real-World Application: In a globalized world, this principle encourages interfaith dialogue, cooperation, and collective action toward solving the world’s pressing issues, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental destruction. For instance, participating in interfaith charitable projects, such as providing aid to the needy, can foster understanding and unity across religious divides.
  • Scripture Verses:
    • “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Psalm 133:1)
    • “Hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided.” (Quran 3:103)

The principles outlined in the Christian version of the Tao Te Ching reflect universal truths found across all major world religions. Whether it’s leading with care, filling our lives with light, responding to harm with love, or fostering unity, these teachings emphasize values of compassion, humility, and peace that transcend religious boundaries. These shared values provide a foundation for human dignity, spiritual growth, and global unity, showing that at the core of all religious traditions lies a call to love, serve, and build a harmonious world.

 

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