Social Relationships

John Christian F. Iglesia

Indeed, one of the aspects of human life is being sociable. In fact, it is what makes the
world diverse. By interacting with one another, we are able to learn more about each other,
particularly our ideas and beliefs. Aside from that, one of the beautiful aspects of socialization is
that there are instances where we are able to change each other’s lives. One example of this is
how we share the goodness of God and the hope He has for humanity to other people. Indeed,
many lives are changed upon hearing this good news.
In this paper, I shall be sharing my insights and reflections from the sixty-eighth chapter
of Mind, Character, and Personality by modern-prophetess Ellen G. White, which focuses on
social relationships in the perspective of a Christian.
To begin, the four key points that struck me most in this chapter are the following: the
importance of social relationships, the use of social powers for soul winning, how social
advantages are talents, and how Jesus was highly social. When it comes to the importance of
social relationships in the Christian perspective, it is best defined in how Christianity has spread
throughout the world. Indeed, when one has heard about the love of God, he or she cannot
resist the call of the Holy Spirit to share it with others. This is the significance of developing
social powers for soul winning. It creates a ripple of influence, which is why Christianity has
undoubtedly become the largest category of religion in the world.
The next point I would like to discuss is about how social advantages are talents.
According to Ellen White, social advantages are considered talents and they should be used in
influencing people, particularly in the aspect of fulfilling God’s work. Jesus was highly social; He
made disciples among men and showed the character of God to people, as He was the Father’s
Son. The fact that He was not conformed to the world and that He was attentive to the needs of
the people was what convinced people to follow Him.
After coming across these four points in this chapter, I looked back on my life and
applied it to the things I have read. It enlightens my understanding of one aspect of me, which is
the social self. I am aware that I am a very sociable person, and it is thrilling to observe that I
have been a blessing to a lot of people throughout my life, most especially my friends. I have
done many things for them such as being attentive of their needs and making them feel special.
My friends are diverse. I have friends who have heard the good news about God and His
saving power, and I have friends who have yet to hear about it. As a Christian, I am reminded of
my purpose. God created me to praise Him and glorify Him, and one of the best ways for me to
fulfill His purpose for me is share Him with the people around me and deepen their faith in Him.