There is
neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male
nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus (Galatians 3:28).
As Christians, though we’ve been called and chosen
out of the world, we still live among different people with different cultures.
Sometimes, some Christians find themselves caught in a conflict between their
ethnic cultures and their Christian faith. First, it’s important to understand
that being born again, your primary culture is now in Christ Jesus. You’re first
and foremost a Christian.
2 Corinthians 5:17 says if any man be in Christ, he
is a new creation; you don’t have another nature, or belong to another culture;
your primary culture is Christ. The Word of God is what guides your way of life
and principles. Therefore, you’re not an American Christian, African Christian,
British Christian, etc. You’re a Christian.
"Does this mean you can’t identify with, or
participate in any "cultural" ceremonies in your country, region, or
town of natural birth?" Well, such "sub-cultures" or cultural
events must not be contrary to the Word of God. They’re okay as long as they
don’t imply anything that’s against your faith in Christ Jesus, or your
primary culture in Christ!
When the Word of God takes residence in your heart
and gains the mastery in your life, you’ll no longer derive any delight or
satisfaction from any culture that’s at variance with the Word. The Word will
choose your new norms, and become your reference point in life. You’ll
naturally participate only in those things that don’t contradict what the
Kingdom stands for, what you have, and who you are in Christ, and God’s Word
for your life.
Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for your Word; my delight is
in you, and my desire is to please you in every way and in everything. Thank
you Lord for helping me set aside all the cares of this life just to serve and
love you passionately. Your Name is exulted forever, and your glory is evident
in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
further study: 1 Peter 2:9
1 Year Bible Reading : Acts 10:1-23 Ezra 4-6
2 Year Bible Reading : 2 Corinthians 7:9-16 Isaiah 9
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