IN or OF the world?

As we "dove" into the perception that Christians are sheltered, or out of touch with reality, we needed to take a closer look at how we engage the world around us.

John 17:14-18 says:
I have given and delivered to them Your word and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. I do not ask that You will take them out of the world, but that You will keep and protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. Separate them for Yourself, make them holy by the Truth; Your Word is Truth.

Just as You sent Me into the world, I also have sent them into the world.

So, we looked at the difference between being in the world and of the world. As you called out those areas where we were in the world, I asked "what do these have in common"

And someone nailed it...........in each we found a way to build relationships with outsiders, to engage the world and be the salt & light we are called to be in Matthew. With this command, we are still to be set apart.......which is where the "of" comes in........not conceding to peer pressure, not being "of" the negative culture of this world.

Next week we break from UnChristian for a night of fun. Bring your favorite board game and we'll see you then.