Christianity is the only faith that transcends national and ethnic boundaries, uniting believers across the world under the truth of Jesus Christ. However, this global reach presents a challenge: how does one reconcile faith with culture, especially when the two are in conflict? The reality is that the teachings of Christ often stand in stark opposition to cultural norms, no matter how widely accepted or historically ingrained they may be. As Christians, we are called to choose faith over culture, rejecting the traditions of man that contradict God’s word.
Culture vs. Christianity: A Direct Conflict
Every culture has a history steeped in sin. Whether it is polygamy, materialism, idolatry, or moral relativism, human traditions frequently contradict the Bible’s teachings. A prime example is the Christian view of marriage: Jesus affirms that marriage is between one man and one woman, and that remarriage is only permissible after the passing of a spouse (Matthew 19:4-6; Romans 7:2-3). Yet, many cultures practice polygamy or permit easy divorce and remarriage for convenience.
Similarly, cultures that glorify material wealth contradict Christ’s call to self-sacrifice and humility (Matthew 6:24). Other cultures promote moral relativism, claiming that truth is subjective, while Jesus declares that He alone is “the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). When Christianity becomes popular within a society, it can become diluted—grace is misinterpreted as permission to continue in sinful cultural traditions rather than a call to transformation (Romans 12:2).
The Bible’s Call to Reject Worldly Culture
The Bible is clear: we are not to conform to the ways of this world. Instead, we must be transformed by the renewing of our minds so that we can discern and follow God’s will (Romans 12:2). Jesus Himself warned that following Him would require forsaking worldly comforts:
“If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24)
Throughout Scripture, believers are called to separate themselves from worldly influences:
- “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.” (1 John 2:15)
- “Therefore, come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, and I will receive you.” (2 Corinthians 6:17)
- “For the wisdom of this world is folly with God.” (1 Corinthians 3:19)
Christians must recognize that culture is not neutral. It is deeply influenced by human sin and rebellion against God. While some aspects of culture may seem harmless, every tradition should be examined through the lens of Scripture. If it contradicts God’s commandments, it must be rejected.
Why Christians Struggle to Reject Culture
Culture provides comfort, routine, and a sense of belonging. Rejecting it can mean facing opposition, ridicule, and even persecution. Jesus warned of this when He said:
“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first.” (John 15:18)
Embracing biblical Christianity requires self-denial. It demands that we walk the narrow path, forsaking the broad road that leads to destruction (Matthew 7:13-14). The ease of cultural acceptance can be tempting, but as Paul wrote, “our citizenship is in heaven” (Philippians 3:20). Our loyalty must be to God’s kingdom, not the world.
The Flawed History of All Cultures
No human culture is pure or righteous. From the brutal conquests of ancient empires to the secularism of modern societies, every culture reflects humanity’s fallen nature. Many societies that claim Christian influence have distorted biblical teachings, using faith as a tool for political or economic gain rather than true discipleship.
For example, colonial empires that spread Christianity often did so with violence, contradicting Christ’s message of love and humility. Today, in countries where Christianity has led to prosperity, people may embrace faith not out of genuine belief but because it offers societal benefits. This leads to a watered-down Christianity, where cultural traditions overshadow true obedience to Christ.
A Call to Self-Examination
Each Christian must regularly examine their thoughts, words, and actions in light of Scripture. Ask yourself:
- Do my cultural traditions align with biblical truth?
- Am I compromising my faith to fit into society?
- Am I truly following Christ, or am I following a comfortable, culturally acceptable version of Christianity?
As Paul instructs, “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves.” (2 Corinthians 13:5)
Embrace Faith, Not Culture
While culture provides a sense of identity and belonging, it is temporary. God’s kingdom is eternal. We must choose Christ over cultural acceptance, faith over comfort, and obedience over tradition.
As Jesus said:
“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.” (Matthew 24:35)
Let us hold fast to His unchanging truth, rejecting the flawed traditions of man and embracing the eternal kingdom of God.
Lazarevic Ministries 