Kenotic witness: a Christ-centered framework for Christian English teachers in intercultural contexts /

Christian English Teachers (CETs) from Western contexts often enter new cultures with genuine intentions to serve, yet they may also face temptations that risk undermining their witness. This article considers ethnocentrism, pride, and the abuse of power as common pitfalls for CETs and proposes kenosis—the self-emptying way of Christ—as a framework for faithful intercultural engagement. Drawing from the Christ-hymn in Philippians 2, three characteristics of kenosis are highlighted: outward orientation, servanthood, and humility. These, in turn, lead to incarnational living marked by presence, proximity, powerlessness, and proclamation. By embodying the kenotic way of Jesus, CETs can resist harmful patterns and bear authentic witness across cultures.