Cross-cultural workers are part of at least two cultures. They retain values from their original culture. They also live in the context of a different culture. Each of these cultures have aspects which both bring great honor to God (such as caring well for the elderly) and which dishonor God (such as practices which promote selfish material gain or deliberately worship beings other than God himself). Workers should seek to become bi-cultural. They are both Chinese and adapted to the local culture where they serve. Paul the Apostle writes that he “became all things to all people, so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Cor. 9:22). Paul traveled and adapted himself to the various groups he ministered among. It is important to note that Paul did not became exactly like those he ministered to. Rather, he became “like” them. For instance, to those under the law, he became like one under the law (9:20). He realized he had freedoms and constraints beyond those under the law, yet he was willing to become similar to them in order to communicate the message about Jesus to them. He allowed himself to adjust, likely in unfamiliar ways, for the purpose of service. He was willing to experience life and view it from their perspective. In doing so, Paul did not cease to be Paul, but he gained by adapting to the local culture. Christian workers can both understand their identity and adapt to the new culture. Their security in Jesus’s love and presence allows them to do this (Matt. 28:20, Rev. 1:5). Becoming bi-cultural is certainly a challenge but is it possible because the Holy Spirit is within them (John 16:13, Eph. 1:13-14).

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Those serving in Muslim contexts should also seek to become bi-cultural. Like Paul the Apostle, they do not need to become exactly like those to whom they minister. They may choose, however, to adapt in many ways to the local culture. Although some local beliefs and practices are not to be followed because they dishonor God, other practices can be adopted. In becoming similar to those around them, workers may be able to better understand the lives, hopes, and fears of locals. This may provide a bridge to effectively share the gospel message, which is something Paul was always eager to do.