21/09/2026
RCCN BIBLE STUDY TWENTY-FOUR (24)
Topic: Believers’ Indebtedness to Unbelievers
1. What is the believer’s indebtedness to unbelievers?
Texts: Matthew 5:13–16; Ezekiel 3:17–19; Proverbs 24:11–12; Jude 22–23
A believer’s “debt” to unbelievers is the responsibility to show them the way of salvation and lead them toward Christ.
This includes:
Sharing the Gospel with those who do not know Christ.
Warning people about the consequences of sin rather than remaining silent.
Being the salt of the earth and light of the world through our words and conduct (Matthew 5:13–16).
Rescuing those who are heading toward destruction (Proverbs 24:11–12).
Showing mercy and compassion to those who doubt and trying to bring them back to the truth (Jude 22–23).
Living a life that makes Christ visible to others.
In summary: We owe unbelievers the message of salvation, godly example, warning, love, prayer, and genuine concern for their souls.
2. What is the basis of the believer’s indebtedness to unbelievers?
Texts: John 20:21; Matthew 22:37–40; Matthew 28:18–20
The basis is Christ’s command and the believer’s love for God and other people.
a. Jesus sent His followers
In John 20:21, Jesus said that just as the Father sent Him, He also sends His disciples. Therefore, every believer has a responsibility to participate in Christ's mission.
b. The command to love
Matthew 22:37–40 teaches us to love God wholeheartedly and to love our neighbour as ourselves. Genuine love cannot ignore someone who is spiritually lost.
c. The Great Commission
Matthew 28:18–20 commands believers to make disciples of all nations, baptize them, and teach them Christ’s commands.
d. What Christ has done for us
Since believers have received salvation through Christ, we should desire that others also hear and receive the Gospel.
In summary: Our indebtedness is based on Christ’s command, Christian love, the Great Commission, and our responsibility as people who have received the Gospel.
3. What are the consequences of refusing to pay our debt to unbelievers?
Texts: Ezekiel 3:17–19; Ezekiel 33:8; Matthew 5:13
Refusing to share the truth and warn those who are spiritually lost has serious consequences.
a. We become disobedient to God's command
God appointed Ezekiel as a watchman. He was expected to warn the wicked. Believers likewise have a responsibility to communicate God's truth.
b. We may be held accountable for failing to warn
Ezekiel 3:18 teaches that when the watchman fails to warn, God holds him accountable for his failure. This emphasizes the seriousness of remaining silent when we should speak.
c. We lose our usefulness as witnesses
Jesus said that salt that loses its saltiness becomes useless (Matthew 5:13). A believer who refuses to influence others for Christ is failing to fulfil an important part of his or her calling.
d. People may continue toward destruction without hearing the truth
Our silence can mean that someone who needs to hear the Gospel never receives the warning or encouragement that could point them toward Christ.
e. We fail to demonstrate Christian love
True Christian love seeks the spiritual good of others. Ignoring people who need Christ contradicts that responsibility.
Key Lesson
Every believer is a spiritual watchman and a messenger of Christ. We are not saved merely to keep the Gospel to ourselves. We are called to shine as lights, share the Gospel, warn people about sin, show mercy, and point unbelievers to Jesus Christ.
Practical ways to “pay our debt” to unbelievers
Share the Gospel with them.
Pray for their salvation.
Live a godly example before them.
Warn them lovingly about the consequences of sin.
Show them Christ's love through practical kindness.
Invite them to church and Christian fellowship.
Encourage those who are struggling or doubting.
Help new believers grow in their faith.
Conclusion
The believer's indebtedness to unbelievers is not a financial debt. It is a spiritual responsibility to love, witness, warn, and help lead people to Christ. Since Christ has entrusted His followers with the Gospel, we should faithfully carry that message to others.
Memory thought: “A believer who has received the light of Christ should not hide that light from those who are still in darkness.”
