I have been reading a book about how the church responded to the 1960’s. During the 1960’s, people were experimenting, indulging and searching for something. After their temporary pleasure faded away, people were longing for God, but the church developed a Jonah complex. Instead of reaching out to needy sinners like Ninevah, most churches in America ran away from the issues facing their communities.
According to Summit Ministries, there are 3 ways to respond to society. First, people can be offended by their culture and withdraw like the Puritans and Amish. Second, you can assimilate, becoming just like your generation with a Christian twist. Or you can engage the culture by developing biblical solutions to societal problems. In reality, every day we have 3 choices with one life to live. The question is what are you going to do?
The apostle Paul set the standard for how to engage your culture in Acts 17:16-34. While visiting Athens, Paul became greatly distressed, yet did not tell these lost people they were going to hell. Rather, Paul went to the people and reasoned with them using basic Apologetics. Paul compliments them in Acts 17:22, calling people religious. Then, Paul finds an altar dedicated to an unknown god in Acts 17:23, using this as a catalyst to introduce people to Jesus. Finally, Paul quotes one of their own poets to illustrate the Lord. At the end of his conversation, Paul led a few people to Christ.
As people continue to search for Jesus, don’t miss the opportunities that come your way. While you may be offended or have the urge to assimilate, engage your friends, family and community as much as you can. Follow Paul’s example, study God’s Word and be open to the Holy Spirit’s leading.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 