Living Counter-Culturally: Embracing God's Word and Truth

 

Summary

Being part of a community of believers is a profound blessing, and as Christians, we are called to live counter-culturally. Throughout Scripture, God's people have always stood apart from the prevailing culture. From Noah building the ark to Abraham leaving his homeland, and Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt, these acts of faith were counter-cultural. Elijah stood alone against the prophets of Baal, and Daniel and his friends refused to bow to Nebuchadnezzar's image. In the New Testament, we are encouraged to live distinctively, as seen in 2 Corinthians 6:17, Philippians 2:15, and Romans 12:2. Jesus Himself warned that following Him would bring trouble, but He has overcome the world.

Living counter-culturally is challenging, as illustrated by a personal story from junior high, where the pressure to conform was strong. Yet, we are called to be different. Understanding Scripture is crucial in this journey, and hermeneutics—the principles of interpreting the Bible—can aid us. The Bible does not contradict itself, and apparent contradictions often resolve with deeper study. Clear passages help interpret cloudy ones, context determines meaning, and we must be cautious of our biases when reading Scripture.

In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul addresses the issue of head coverings, which was a symptom of a deeper problem: the blurring of gender roles. The Bible teaches that men and women are equal in essence and dignity, yet distinct in roles. This was revolutionary in a culture that viewed women as inferior. Paul emphasizes that men and women are interdependent and equal before God. The church must remain true to God's Word despite societal pressures, holding fast to biblical truths even when unpopular.

Ultimately, the call is to live according to God's Word, acknowledging our sin and turning to Christ for salvation. In doing so, we become new creations, living out our faith in a world that often opposes it. This counter-cultural life is not just about societal roles but begins in the heart, where we repent and embrace God's way.

Key Takeaways:

1. Counter-Cultural Faith: Throughout history, God's people have been called to live counter-culturally, standing firm in their faith despite societal pressures. This call remains for us today, as we are encouraged to live distinctively, shining as lights in a world that often opposes God's ways. [04:39]

2. Understanding Scripture: Hermeneutics, the art of interpreting the Bible, is essential for understanding God's Word. By recognizing that the Bible does not contradict itself, using clear passages to interpret cloudy ones, and considering context, we can deepen our understanding and avoid misinterpretations. [09:04]

3. Equality and Distinction: The Bible teaches that men and women are equal in essence and dignity, yet distinct in roles. This counter-cultural message challenges societal norms and calls us to honor God's created order, recognizing the unique contributions of both genders. [22:07]

4. Staying True to God's Word: The church must remain steadfast in adhering to God's Word, even when societal pressures push for compromise. True faithfulness involves living out biblical truths, investing in community, and growing in our relationship with God. [30:38]

5. Personal Transformation: The journey of faith begins with acknowledging our sin and turning to Christ for salvation. As new creations in Christ, we are called to live counter-culturally, embracing God's way and allowing His Word to transform our lives. [24:36]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [04:39] - Counter-Cultural Faith
- [09:04] - Understanding Scripture
- [12:57] - Context Determines Meaning
- [16:59] - Gender Roles in Corinth
- [22:07] - Equality and Distinction
- [24:36] - Personal Transformation
- [30:38] - Staying True to God's Word
- [34:00] - The Call to Repentance
- [36:45] - Embracing God's Order
- [40:00] - Conclusion and Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:

1. 2 Corinthians 6:17
2. Philippians 2:15
3. Romans 12:2

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Observation Questions:

1. What examples from the Old Testament were given in the sermon to illustrate living counter-culturally? [04:39]

2. How does the sermon describe the role of hermeneutics in understanding Scripture? [09:04]

3. What was the cultural significance of head coverings in Corinth, according to the sermon? [16:59]

4. How does the sermon explain the relationship between men and women in terms of equality and roles? [22:07]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the sermon interpret the call to live counter-culturally in today's world, and what challenges might this present to believers? [04:39]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that understanding Scripture can help believers live distinctively? [09:04]

3. How does the sermon address the apparent contradictions in the Bible, and what methods are suggested for resolving them? [09:04]

4. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of maintaining biblical truths in the face of societal pressures? [30:38]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a time when you felt pressured to conform to societal norms. How did you respond, and what might you do differently in light of the sermon’s message on living counter-culturally? [04:39]

2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of understanding Scripture. What steps can you take to improve your understanding of the Bible, and how might this impact your daily life? [09:04]

3. Consider the sermon’s discussion on gender roles. How do you perceive the balance between equality and distinct roles in your own life, and how can you honor this balance in your relationships? [22:07]

4. The sermon challenges believers to stay true to God's Word despite societal pressures. What are some specific ways you can hold fast to biblical truths in your community or workplace? [30:38]

5. Reflect on the concept of personal transformation as a new creation in Christ. What areas of your life do you feel need transformation, and how can you invite God into that process? [24:36]

6. How can you actively participate in a community of believers to support and encourage one another in living out a counter-cultural faith? [30:38]

7. The sermon mentions the importance of acknowledging our sin and turning to Christ. What steps can you take this week to deepen your relationship with Christ and embrace His way? [24:36]

Devotional

Day 1: Living Distinctively in a Conforming World
Living counter-culturally as a Christian means standing firm in faith, even when societal norms push against God's ways. Throughout history, God's people have been called to live distinctively, from Noah's obedience in building the ark to Daniel's refusal to bow to Nebuchadnezzar's image. These acts of faith were not just acts of defiance but were rooted in a deep trust in God's promises and commands. Today, Christians are still called to shine as lights in a world that often opposes God's ways. This involves making choices that reflect God's truth, even when it means going against the grain of popular culture. [04:39]

2 Corinthians 6:17 (ESV): "Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you."

Reflection: In what specific area of your life do you feel the pressure to conform to societal norms, and how can you choose to stand firm in your faith today?


Day 2: The Art of Understanding Scripture
Understanding Scripture is essential for living a life that honors God. Hermeneutics, the art of interpreting the Bible, helps believers navigate the complexities of Scripture. By recognizing that the Bible does not contradict itself, using clear passages to interpret cloudy ones, and considering the context, believers can deepen their understanding and avoid misinterpretations. This process requires humility and a willingness to let go of personal biases, allowing God's Word to speak for itself. As you study the Bible, remember that it is a unified story that points to Jesus and His redemptive work. [09:04]

2 Timothy 2:15 (ESV): "Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who has no need to be ashamed, rightly handling the word of truth."

Reflection: What is one passage of Scripture that you find challenging to understand, and how can you approach it with fresh eyes and an open heart this week?


Day 3: Embracing Equality and Distinction
The Bible teaches that men and women are equal in essence and dignity, yet distinct in roles. This message was revolutionary in a culture that viewed women as inferior. Paul emphasizes that men and women are interdependent and equal before God, each contributing uniquely to the body of Christ. This counter-cultural message challenges societal norms and calls believers to honor God's created order. By recognizing and valuing the unique contributions of both genders, the church can reflect the beauty and diversity of God's design. [22:07]

Galatians 3:28 (ESV): "There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: How can you actively honor and celebrate the unique contributions of both men and women in your community this week?


Day 4: Faithfulness Amidst Societal Pressures
Staying true to God's Word requires steadfastness, especially when societal pressures push for compromise. The church is called to remain faithful to biblical truths, investing in community and growing in relationship with God. This involves living out the teachings of Scripture, even when they are unpopular or counter-cultural. True faithfulness is not just about adhering to rules but about cultivating a heart that seeks to honor God in all things. As you navigate the challenges of living in a world that often opposes God's ways, remember that your faithfulness is a testimony to the transformative power of the Gospel. [30:38]

1 Peter 1:14-16 (ESV): "As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct, since it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy.'"

Reflection: What is one area where you feel tempted to compromise your faith, and how can you seek God's strength to remain faithful today?


Day 5: Transformation Through Repentance
The journey of faith begins with acknowledging our sin and turning to Christ for salvation. As new creations in Christ, believers are called to live counter-culturally, embracing God's way and allowing His Word to transform their lives. This transformation is not just about changing external behaviors but involves a deep, internal change of heart. Repentance is a daily practice of turning away from sin and turning towards God, allowing His Spirit to renew and guide you. As you embrace this journey, remember that God's grace is sufficient, and His power is made perfect in your weakness. [24:36]

Ezekiel 36:26-27 (ESV): "And I will give you a new heart, and a new spirit I will put within you. And I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my Spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes and be careful to obey my rules."

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to seek God's forgiveness and allow His Spirit to bring transformation today?

Quotes

"We are part of a counter-cultural revolution as Christians. As a matter of fact, all throughout the pages of Scripture, those people who follow God are counter-cultural. You go all the way back to Noah when he built a giant ark. I mean, how counter-cultural is that? He's talking about a flood coming, and he's out there building this massive ark. What were the people around him thinking? How about Abraham? He was called by God in Genesis chapter 12 to come out of his land, to leave his family, and to go somewhere else to be a people of God so that the rest of the world, the rest of the nations, would be blessed by his people. That's the nation of Israel. That's what their purpose was, to show and display the mighty power of the God who made heaven and earth. That was their calling. Their calling was to be different from the world, and it started with Abraham." [00:00:04] (54 seconds)


"In the New Testament, we are encouraged as Christians now to be counter-cultural. Let me show you a few verses. Here's 2 Corinthians 6, 17. Therefore, come out from among unbelievers and separate yourselves from them, says the Lord. Don't touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. This is the apostle Paul quoting what the word of God said to the nation of Israel in the Old Testament. Now he's applying that to us as believers. Here's another one, Philippians 2, 15. So that no one can criticize you, live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people." [00:02:34] (41 seconds)


"Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. Do you want to know what God's will for you is in your life? Don't conform to the world, but transform your mind through God's word. One last one. These are the words of Jesus." [00:03:27] (22 seconds)


"Jesus says, If the world hates you, remember that it hated me first. The world would love you as one of its own if you belong to it, but you are no longer part of the world. I chose you to come out of the world so it hates you. The world's going to hate you. We have to reject any form of Christianity that's going to say, When you come to Jesus, life is just going to be better." [00:03:50] (23 seconds)


"You're going to be prosperous. You're going to be healthy. You're going to be successful. People are going to like you. Actually, quite the opposite could be true. Jesus said, In this life you will have trouble, but take heart. I've overcome the world. When you come to Christ, you're coming to the anti-establishment in the world. You're going to be counter-cultural. The world and the devil and wickedness will be set against you, and your life will probably become harder." [00:04:12] (24 seconds)


"Hermeneutics is the principles and methods used to interpret and understand the Bible. And I want to give you four of these things that will help you understand the scriptures that you read. After the first service, I was talking to a young man. He was just baptized. We baptized him a month or two ago. And I said, how's your spiritual life going? How are things going? He's like, well, I'm taking the Bible out to read, but I read it, and I don't really understand the words." [00:06:06] (28 seconds)


"If God contradicted himself, we couldn't trust him. He wouldn't be trustworthy. So too, the word of God. Now some people will say, well, Pastor Steve, there's contradictions all over this thing. And when you talk to them and you actually get to know, they haven't studied it really. They've just seen little talking points. And the talking points, the apparent contradictions that they bring up to you, aren't very hard to conquer." [00:07:10] (24 seconds)


"The clear passages of the Bible help us interpret the cloudy ones. So let me give you a cloudy verse, okay? 1 Timothy 2, verse 15. Speaking of women, yet she will be saved through childbearing. That's a difficulty, isn't it? That a woman is saved through childbearing. Is it true that not all women can have babies, right? So are they just out of luck?" [00:10:08] (36 seconds)


"Women be saved through childbearing. Well, that's cloudy. So we go to the clear passages to figure out how is a person saved, a man or a woman. And so where would you go? You go to Ephesians 2, 8, and 9. For by grace you've been saved through faith. It's a gift of God. It's not of works, so that no one can boast. You're saved by God's grace through faith. Romans 5, verse 1. Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." [00:10:44] (26 seconds)


"Countercultural teaching of the Bible, number two. Men and women have been distinctively created, and therefore have different roles. Now, the issue in Corinth really wasn't about the head coverings. That was just a symptom of the problems. The problem was that they were blurring the lines between men and women. That's what these women were doing. And he says, well, why don't you just take off, if you're going to take off the head covering, why don't you go all the way and just shave your head?" [00:25:30] (34 seconds)


"When a church, when a country, when a society doesn't recognize the difference in the created roles that God has given men and women, it leads to that institution imploding. You can look back, Greco-Roman history, Greece fell in the 4th century B.C. when this type of gender stuff was happening. Rome, a couple hundred years after Paul's writing this to Corinth, they fell just after that same thing. Energy and time spent into my identity and my sexuality and my identity and gender." [00:29:36] (31 seconds)


"Countercultural teaching of the Bible, number three. The church must remain true to God's word despite societal pressure. We gotta stay true. I mean, you see it, right? You see these other churches that don't stay true to God's word? They stay true to something else? Some social gospel, helping people, loving people, feeding people? That's all good and great, but if you don't got the gospel of Jesus Christ, if you don't got God's word, you got nothing and you're a social club." [00:31:01] (25 seconds)


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Transcript
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