In a rapidly changing world, where America's values and beliefs have shifted significantly, we find ourselves more aligned with the first century than ever before. This change can evoke a range of emotions, from nostalgia for the past to a sense of hopelessness. However, for some, it sparks anticipation and hope because they remember how the early church thrived under similar conditions. Which perspective you adopt largely depends on your ability to adapt and change to meet the needs of the present reality. This message will guide you on this transformative journey.
Learning from the Early Church
In Acts 17, we witness the apostle Paul's experience in Athens—a city teeming with idols. Rather than condemning the culture, Paul met the people where they were. He recognized their religious fervor and seized the opportunity to introduce them to the God they didn't know. We must follow this example and meet people where they are, rather than demanding that they conform to our beliefs.
Staying Centered in Our Thinking
Today, many Christians define themselves primarily by their beliefs, often neglecting the essence of love. We need to shift our focus from being bounded by specific doctrines to being centered on love. Christ's message is about the direction you're heading—toward Him and His love.
Sharing Our Life and Love with Outsiders
To reach a generation that questions the worthiness of Christianity, we must live out our faith authentically. As Andy Crouch suggests, it's not about proving Christianity's truth but demonstrating its worthiness through an attractive vision.
G.K. Chesterton reminds us that in a world where people believe in anything or nothing, carefully reasoned arguments often fall flat. Instead, we must follow the early Christian bishops' example of identifying with the marginalized. By caring for the poor and weak, we reflect God's love and gain cultural influence.
Matthew 5:16 reminds us that our good deeds lead others to glorify God. It's the good stuff we do that leads others to the God stuff. E. Stanley Jones encourages us to do something nobody but a Christian would do every day.
Moreover, being sympathetic listeners is essential. Benjamin Franklin's approach of gently guiding people toward the truth, rather than confronting them, is a valuable lesson. Mahatma Gandhi's advice to emphasize love, study other religions sympathetically, and be more sympathetic in our approach also applies.
We must recover biblical hospitality. Dr. Timothy Keller emphasizes that, in a privatized, secularized society, people won't listen to the gospel from strangers. We should turn strangers into guests, mirroring Christ's welcoming attitude.
Finally, Henri Nouwen's concept of hospitality involves creating a safe space for the stranger to be themselves. Leviticus 19:33-34 and Romans 12:13 remind us of our duty to treat foreigners with love and kindness.
In today's diverse society, we encounter more anthropological diversity in ten minutes than an 18th-century traveler did in their lifetime. Romans 12:13 calls us to extend hospitality to strangers, embracing the richness of our global community.
And remember, it's not just their story or your story; it's His story. As Stephen R. Covey points out, people are influenced by our uniqueness. Don't be afraid to share how Christ has changed your life.
Start with your story, as George Barna suggests, and remember that your transformed life is a compelling testimony. Then, ultimately, it's about His story—the story of Christ's love and redemption.
As we navigate the challenges of living in a changing world, let us strive to be contributors rather than consumers, living out our faith with love, humility, and a heart for others.
- Senior Pastor Keith Stewart | Springcreek Church
Kingdom Living and Loving in Babylon - Consumer or Contributor? (Part 2)
