In The World But Not Of The World

You may have heard that believers are to be "in the world but not of the world." Have you wondered about the difference between those two options?

John 17:11-16 says Christians have to participate in their culture's systems, which includes commerce, politics, law, religion, art, education, and science. Believers keep homes, go to church, make and spend money, create things, etc. But no matter how fulfilling these are, God's children are to value the heavenly Father above all earthly pursuits (Matt. 6:33).

Interaction with nonbelievers is a primary way that we model and spread the gospel. If we were to withdraw from society, how would the lost learn about Jesus?

While associating with non-Christians is very appropriate, we should be aware of what's driving the world system. The Devil corrupted God's perfect order, diverting devotion away from the Lord. God intended that we receive peace and contentment from obeying Him, while Satan promotes the delusion of self-fulfillment. No pleasure offered by the world system is permanent or truly rewarding. However, until Christ establishes a new heaven and earth, believers must take part in this world