When the world begins taking sides on any issue, what should is a Christian Response to Cultural Movements?
Whenever a cultural movement sweeps across a nation—or even the world—Christians face a challenge. How do we respond? Do we join in? Do we stay silent? Most importantly, do we continue sharing the Gospel even when some voices tell us not to?
Throughout history, many movements have emerged in response to social issues. Some have led to real change, while others have caused deep division. Today, many believers find themselves caught between pressure to conform and the biblical call to stand firm in faith. When cultural conversations dominate, we must ask ourselves: What does Jesus call us to do?
The Unchanging Mission of the Church
Some Christian leaders have suggested that believers should avoid using these moments to spread the Gospel. Yet, Jesus made our mission clear:
Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 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, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’”
Jesus’ final command was not conditional. It wasn’t dependent on the state of the world, the political climate, or the social pressures of the time. The Great Commission is for all times, including times of upheaval.
The question is simple: Who will we listen to? Jesus, or voices that contradict Him?
Division and Discord: A Warning from Scripture
In seasons of unrest, emotions run high, and division creeps into the church. Scripture warns us about this:
Jude 1:17-21 (ESV)
“But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, ‘In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.’ It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.”
When the world stirs up division, the body of Christ must remain united. If we are drawn into cultural conflicts at the expense of our spiritual mission, we risk losing sight of what matters most—our witness for Christ.
Movements throughout history, including righteous causes like the abolition of slavery and the fight for civil rights, have at times aligned with biblical justice. However, every movement is at risk of being co-opted by those with ulterior motives. Christians must be discerning. Our priority should always be the Kingdom of God, not the shifting priorities of the world.
How Should We Respond?
So, what should believers do when cultural movements demand our attention? Scripture gives us two clear principles:
1. Do Not Show Partiality
James 2:1-9 (ESV)
“My brothers, show no partiality as you hold the faith in our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory… If you really fulfill the royal law according to the Scripture, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself,’ you are doing well. But if you show partiality, you are committing sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors.”
Movements often encourage people to take sides, but partiality leads to judgment. As believers, we are called to love all people equally. Whether someone is rich or poor, powerful or powerless, their worth is determined by God alone. Our role is not to pass judgment but to extend the grace we have received.
2. Become All Things to All People (Without Sinning)
1 Corinthians 9:19-23 (ESV)
“For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I might win more of them… I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.”
Paul teaches us how to engage with the world without losing sight of our mission. If people are mourning, we mourn with them. If they are celebrating, we rejoice alongside them. If they are hurting, we offer comfort. But in every situation, our goal remains the same: to point people to Christ.
Citizens of Heaven First
At the end of the day, we must remember where our true citizenship lies. We are first and foremost citizens of Heaven, and our actions should reflect that reality. While the world will always be caught up in causes and conflicts, our calling remains unchanged—to share the love of God and make disciples.
We must live in a way that reflects Christ, extending His grace and mercy to all. In doing so, we offer the world something more significant than any movement ever could: the eternal hope found in Jesus Christ.
Spread the Gospel – lives depend on it!
I pray, MARANATHA! (Come quickly, Lord Jesus!)
Your brother in Christ,
Duane
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