Reflections on “Being in the World but Not of It”
Have you ever wondered how Christians are supposed to live in today’s world? The answer isn’t about hiding away or forming isolated groups. From its very beginning, Christianity was never meant to be a club that shuts its doors to outsiders. Instead, Christians are called to be an active, positive presence in society—living, working, and sharing life with everyone, not just other Christians.
Engaged, Not Isolated
Christians aren’t meant to avoid the world or refuse to interact with people who think or believe differently. The idea is not to separate ourselves, but to live our faith honestly and openly among others. This means you can go to school, have a job, enjoy hobbies, and be a part of your community alongside neighbors, coworkers, and friends, whether they share your faith or not.
In the World, But Not of the World
This phrase might sound strange, but it’s pretty simple. It means that while Christians fully participate in everyday life, their values and choices aren’t dictated by what’s popular, trendy, or accepted around them if those things go against God’s teachings. In other words, Christians are called to live according to God’s standards—even when the world encourages something different.
It’s like swimming in a river: you’re in the water, but you don’t let the current carry you wherever it wants. Instead, you keep your direction, guided by God’s love and wisdom.
Why Does This Matter?
· Discernment: Christians are encouraged to think carefully about what they watch, read, and do. Not everything society offers lines up with Christian values. It takes wisdom to know what to enjoy and what to avoid.
· Love and Service: Christians try to show genuine love and kindness to everyone—just like God does. But loving people doesn’t mean loving everything the world promotes, especially if it leads away from God.
· Integrity: Whether at work, in school, or at home, Christians aim to make choices that reflect honesty, kindness, and generosity, even when it’s tough or when “everyone else is doing it.”
Biblical Roots
This way of living comes straight from the Bible. In the Gospel of John (17:14-16), Jesus prays for his followers, asking God to keep them safe from evil while they remain in the world. He doesn’t ask God to take them out of the world, but to protect them as they do their work here. Another passage, Romans 12:2, encourages Christians not to just “go with the flow,” but to let God shape their minds and actions.
What Does This Look Like Day-to-Day?
· Entertainment & Choices: Christians are called to ask, “Does this help me live the way God wants?” before choosing movies, music, or activities.
· Money & Success: It’s okay to work hard and succeed, but Christians are encouraged not to let material things or the drive for more take over their lives.
· Helping Others: Serving neighbors, being honest, and caring for those in need are practical ways Christians show their faith in action.
Facing Challenges
Jesus didn’t promise an easy life for his followers. He prayed for their protection and strength, not for them to escape problems. Christians have a purpose: to glorify God and help others. The world can sometimes be hostile or tempting, but with God’s help, Christians aim to stay true to their faith, even when it’s hard.
The Big Picture
In short, being a Christian in the world means living among everyone—without losing sight of what really matters. It’s about shining a light in dark places, loving people, and making choices that honor God. Christians aren’t perfect, but they strive to be different in the best way possible: by being compassionate, wise, and faithful, wherever they are.
Minister A Francine Green
January 2026
afrancinegreen.com 