Friday, July 5, 2024

How Should Christians Respond to Cultural Changes?

Our world is rapidly changing in many ways, with cultural shifts that can leave us reeling, uncertain, and challenged on almost every level. As Christians, it’s crucial to journey through these changes with faithfulness, wisdom, and love. As society and culture evolve and new norms emerge, the principles of our faith remain steadfast and provide a solid foundation on which we can stand as followers of Christ.

In this post, we’ll consider how Christians can respond to cultural changes by trusting God’s unchanging sovereignty, staying rooted in the Scriptures, engaging with love and grace, and being a light in the world. By anchoring ourselves in the Lord, we can confidently and compassionately maneuver the changes in our modern culture while reflecting Christ’s love and truth with each interaction.

This post is somewhat lengthier than normal, as it covers some essentials that followers of Christ need to remember in our changing world.

Understanding Cultural Change

Cultural change refers to transforming societal norms, values, beliefs, and practices over time. Changes can be driven by various factors, including technological advancements, economic shifts, political movements, and social trends. As new ideas and behaviors emerge, they influence how people interact, communicate, and perceive the world around them.

Throughout history, societies have undergone numerous transformations, bringing new challenges and opportunities. The Bible reminds us, in Ecclesiastes 3:1 NKJV, that “to everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven…” Understanding that change is a natural part of God’s design can help us approach it with a sense of peace and readiness.

It's important to understand that some cultural changes are healthy and beneficial, while others can be unhealthy and harmful. Even so, we are not to hunker down in a bunker. God wants us to get out there and be with people to spread the good news of Jesus Christ's redemptive love. 

We're also not supposed to be naive or uninformed about what's going on around us. But what reassurances does God give us about living "in a foreign" culture?  

One of the most comforting truths as we go through cultural change is found in Hebrews 13:8 NKJV, which says, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” While the world around us may be in constant flux, our Savior remains unchanging. His love, teachings, and promises provide us with a steadfast anchor for our souls at all times.


So, when confronted with cultural shifts, we must view them through our faith. Doing so, we can discern what is beneficial and aligns with God’s Word and what may lead us astray. Discernment requires us to be deeply rooted in the Scriptures, bringing us to the next point: remembering God’s sovereignty.

God is Sovereign Over All

Before we discuss how to navigate cultural change, we must first recognize and rest in God's sovereignty. What does it mean that God is sovereign? Our Lord’s sovereignty means that He is the supreme ruler who is supreme in power and authority. He reigns over all creation, including us, His creatures. He determines everything according to His perfect will and purposes, even amid the most turbulent cultural shifts.

Scripture assures us of God’s unchanging nature and His sovereign control over all things. In Malachi 3:6, the Lord declares, “I the Lord do not change. So you, the descendants of Jacob, are not destroyed.” This verse highlights the stability and faithfulness of God, who remains constant even when everything around us is in flux. Similarly, in Romans 8:28, we are reminded that “in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.” We can rest assured that our Father actively works in and through every circumstance for our ultimate good and His glory.

Recognizing God’s sovereignty and that He has a sovereign plan gives us peace and confidence in the face of cultural change. We are reminded that nothing happens outside of His knowledge and control. No matter how overwhelming or disorienting the changes around us may be, we can trust that God has a plan at work. His purposes are unshakable, and His promises are sure.

When times are uncertain, our faith in God’s sovereignty anchors our souls. It encourages us to look beyond the immediate challenges and trust in His eternal plan. By focusing on His unchanging nature and sovereign rule, we find the strength to stand firm and journey through all changes with confidence.

Our Father never changes, and His Word will remain the same for eternity. With this knowledge and assurance, we can face all kinds of change with hope, knowing that our sovereign Lord is always in control.

Stay Rooted in Faith

In the midst of cultural change, staying rooted in our faith is crucial. Our faith provides us with a firm foundation and guides us in discerning how to navigate the shifting landscapes of society and culture. The Bible describes a person who delights in the law of the Lord as “…like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; and whatever he does shall prosper” (Psalm 1:2-3 NKJV). This vivid imagery reminds us that a deep connection with God’s Word sustains us and helps us flourish, even amid change.

One of the main ways to stay rooted in faith is through regular engagement with the Scripture. The Bible is described as “…given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17 NKJV). By immersing ourselves in God’s Word, we equip ourselves with the knowledge and wisdom necessary to discern the truth and navigate the complexities of our ever-changing world. Scripture acts as our guide, providing clarity and direction at all times, including when we’re uncertain.

Prayer is another essential part of staying rooted in the faith. Through prayer, we seek God’s guidance, express our concerns, and align our hearts with His will. Prayer keeps us connected to God, reminds us of His sovereignty, and provides the peace and strength we need to face cultural changes with confidence. He also guides us in how to pray for our world, society, and culture.

In addition to Bible study and prayer, being part of a faith community is crucial. Fellowship with other believers offers support, engagement, and accountability. Together, we can discuss applying biblical principles to contemporary issues, share insights, and pray for one another. This communal aspect of our faith strengthens our resolve and helps us remain steadfast in our convictions.

In a constantly evolving world, maintaining a strong, active faith is essential. It anchors us in truth, equips us with wisdom, and empowers us to engage with the world in a way that honors God. As we stay rooted in faith, we become better prepared to respond to cultural changes with discernment, grace, and love.

Narrow is the Way

Enter by the narrow gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it.

Matthew 7:13-14 NKJV

As Christians, we have an obligation to follow the Lord’s commandments in spite of the secular culture around us. We must choose to stay true to what His Word (Jesus) tells us in the scriptures. As we meet the demands of a changing culture, we must continue to be faithful to our heavenly Father. Why? Because the gate is narrow that leads to eternal life, and the way is difficult. The only way through is by following Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, every day of our lives, no matter what the secular culture says.

Further along in Matthew 7, in verses 15-19 NKJV, it says, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore, by their fruits you will know them.”

What does this mean? We, as Christians and followers of Christ, are to follow His teachings and way. We are not to follow every person who calls himself a Christian or who appears outwardly to be good. Not all people are good, and they may be wolves in sheep’s clothing. How can you tell? One way is discernment through the Holy Spirit. Another way is “by their fruits you will know them.” In other words, through their actions and the result of their actions, you can determine who is a true follower of our Lord. Do their actions and the result of their actions follow God’s Word? If not, these are false people.

The same applies to culture and society. Is the culture bringing people together or tearing them apart? Is violence, robbery, strife, bodily harm, and corruption regularly out in the open? If so, the culture/society has become immoral and is not following God’s ways. Even when the culture and society are immoral, we are to live Godly lives. This is the narrow way that leads to salvation.

We are taught to keep following God’s Word, doing right, praying, seeking to serve and help others, and staying faithful to our God. Jesus says, in Matthew 10:16 NKJV, “Behold, I send you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. Therefore be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.”

The first part of this verse means that Jesus has called on us to go out and serve. We are not to hunker down in a bunker until times are better. Instead, we are to keep the faith and do what Jesus did. He sends us out into the world to serve, love, and help others.

The second part of Matthew 10:16 can be difficult to understand. What does it mean to be wise as serpents and harmless as doves? Being wise as a serpent means not unnecessarily irritating or baiting those who are not followers of Christ. Our behavior must be in line with Christ’s teachings and full of integrity.

But how can we be as harmless as doves? We must keep our behavior inoffensive and harmless—staying meek even when provoked.

These are the ways Jesus met the cultural and religious changes and hypocrisy in His own time. The only time we see anger is when He cleans out the temple, which is righteous anger (Matthew 21:12-17; Mark 11:15-19; Luke 19:45-48; John 2:13-16). Otherwise, Christ was very wise and meek in the way He taught and ministered to the people and religious leaders. We are to follow His example in all things.

Be a Light in the World

As Christians, we are called to be a light in the world, illuminating the darkness with the love and truth of Jesus Christ. Jesus said, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden” (Matthew 5:14 NKJV). This powerful statement reminds us we have a responsibility to shine brightly and visibly in the world, reflecting God’s glory in all we do. Our conduct should be so exemplary that it points others to God, as it says in Peter 2:12 NKJV, “…having your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may, by your good works which they observe, glorify God in the day of visitation.”

One practical way to be a light in the world is through acts of service and generosity. When we selflessly serve others, we demonstrate the love of Christ and meet the tangible needs of our communities. Whether volunteering at a local shelter, helping a neighbor, or supporting a charitable cause, these acts of kindness significantly impact those around us and demonstrate the transformative power of God’s love. Moreover, we should share the gospel with those around us, as it says in I Peter 3:15 NKJV, “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear…”

Being a light also means standing firm in our convictions while engaging with culture in a loving and respectful manner. We should strive to understand the perspectives of others and address cultural issues with grace and truth while staying true to God’s Word. This balance of conviction and compassion allows us to build bridges and foster meaningful conversations that can lead to spiritual growth and understanding in ourselves and others. Authentically and intentionally living out our faith honors God and draws others to His redeeming love.  

Concluding Thoughts

In a constantly changing world, Christians are called to respond with love, faith, and grace. By understanding cultural change through God’s sovereignty, we can remain confident and at peace, knowing He is in control. Staying rooted in our faith through Scripture, prayer, and fellowship equips us to navigate these changes wisely and discerningly.

As we engage with the world, we must embody the love of Christ, serving others selflessly and sharing the hope we have in Jesus. Our lives should reflect His light as we stand firm in our convictions while approaching others with compassion and respect. In doing so, we fulfill our calling to be a beacon of hope and truth in a world that desperately needs Christ’s light and love.

We must remember that our unchanging God is with us through every season of life. By trusting in His sovereignty and relying on His guidance, we can confidently and compassionately journey through cultural changes, bringing glory to Him and drawing others to His transforming love.

In the next post, we’ll examine the Book of Daniel, which describes how Daniel managed major change when he and others were taken captive to Babylon.

God bless,

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