How much does “culture” affect our relationship with Jesus?
2 Peter 1:2-4
“Grace and peace be multiplied to you in the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord; seeing that His divine power has granted to us everything pertaining to life and godliness, through the true knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and excellence. For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.” (New American Standard Bible)
There has been, and continues to be, a great debate over “the culture wars.” Many readers will be among the number who are striving with all their political, moral, and religious strength to stem the tide of change rolling throughout the USA. There will also be faithful Christians, strong supporters of world missions all, who think that wars over culture are futile at best.
It is not my desire to to join a side in this argument, nor do I wish to add fuel to the fire of argument between the groups. I simply ask everyone to ponder the title of this thought provocation based upon the scripture quoted above. “How much does ‘culture’ affect our relationship with Jesus?”
The various cultures of the world present obstacles to the belief in and the following of Jesus. A friend recently returned from travel in Asia, and recounted a discussion where a Christian leader said, “For people to accept Jesus they must cease to be ______ (national origin withheld).” I have heard this same sentiment expressed by both expatriate missionaries and nationals in many places. I have heard stories of Bible Colleges that will not allow any literature in their library from the nation of their origin but include many volumes of Western Literature. Are these cultural attitudes based upon scripture or our personal cultural preferences?
Scripture is clear it is the promises of God, built upon His glory and excellence, that enable us to become partakers of the divine nature and escape the corruption of the world. I understand a disturbed feeling about current cultural changes across the USA. Resist them to be sure, but never think that eternity hinges on culture! People followed Jesus faithfully in the evil days of Nero’s Roman Empire! There are Christians today living faithfully where evil is celebrated and persecution of believers is violent. Thankfully we can stand firm on God’s promises! They are as unchangeable as are His glory and excellence, and no cultural wave can alter them. You think about that!
Praying for more to be His,
Reggie Hundley
Executive Director
Mission Services Association, Inc.
the missions network
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