From these descendants, the peoples of the coasts and islands spread out into their lands according to their clans in their nations, each with its own language.
Genesis 10:5
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Matthew 28:19
Traits of Culture(s):
– Cultures are ideological
– Cultures are shared
– Cultures are learned
– Cultures are religious
– Cultures are take for granted
Join in imitating me, brothers and sisters, and pay careful attention to those who live according to the example you have in us. For I have often told you, and now say again with tears, that many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction; their god is their stomach; their glory is in their shame; and they are focused on earthly things. Our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly wait for a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:17-20
See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.
Colossians 2:8
He makes nations great, then destroys them;
he enlarges nations, then leads them away.
Job 12:23
How to realign citizenship
– Convert
– Check your posture toward culture
– Audit your influence
– Pray for cultural transformation
How can cultures influence our faith for better or for worse?
What cultures are you a part of and what elements of those cultures potentially help and hinder your faith? Be as specific as possible.
Read Philippians 3:17-20. How does the way we think about our citizenship (i.e. earthly v heavenly) impact how we live?
Read Colossians 2:8. Why do you think people are often more inclined to reproduce their own culture instead of seeking to advance the Gospel within their culture?
What did Jesus’ posture toward His own culture look like? What are some practical ways you can imitate Him as you engage society?
