With the blurry distinctions between the
church and the world, how can the elect be
saved or “escape the corruption that is in the
world through lust” (Acts 2:40; 2 Pet. 1:4c)?
How can we live irreproachably without
compromising God's standard and
commandments in this social media age with
all its subtle, steady and sweeping influences?
(Phil. 2:15). Hear the declaration by the Spirit:
“But ye are a chosen generation, a royal
priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people,
that ye should shew forth the praises of him
who hath called you out of darkness into his
marvelous light” (1 Pet. 2:9). Again, Jesus
said “…ye are not of the world, but I have
chosen you out of the world…” (John 15:19b).
Chosen for what? To make a difference; to
bear fruit through soul-winning, and to abide
in God (John 15).
As Christians, we live in this world, not to
imitate its ways or align with its system but to
be an extension of God's grace, mercy, love
and truth. Believers are to be the light and salt
of the world (Matt. 5:13-14); to illuminate the
gloom and sweeten the distastefulness that
characterizes the world system. The only way
of escape is to accept the Lord Jesus Christ by
faith (Rom. 1:16; 3:22), and worship Him in
spirit and truth (John 4:24). First, we must
work out our salvation with fear and
trembling (Phil. 2:15). Second, we must
examine and update our faith status on daily
basis (2 Cor. 13:5). Third, we must submit our
thoughts, decisions and activities to the
control of the Holy Spirit (Gal. 5:25; Eph.
5:18). Fourth, we must be conscious that we
are the salt and light of the world, and act
accordingly (Matt. 5:13-14). Fifth, we must
be at alert spiritually and crucify the flesh with
all its affections and lust (Gal. 2:20). Sixth, we
must set our affections on the things above
and disregard earthly passions (Col. 3:2).
Seventh, we must regularly engage in
spiritual activities, not mere religious
activities (Eph. 5:19) to strengthen our
spiritual immunity (Jude 20). Eighth, we must
put on the whole armour of Christ (Eph. 6:11).
Daniel, Shadrack Meshack and Abednego are
good examples of a “chosen generation” who
lived blameless and uncompromising in the
midst of a “perverse generation” in
Babylonian empire. They were diligent,
outstanding and deeply spiritual in life and
ministry (Dan. 1:19-20). By God's grace and
through obedience, prayer, meditation and
discipline, they were able to generate capacity
for excellence and distinction (2 Tim 2:15).
Friends, do not love the world, do not
subscribe to its system, and do not identify
with a perverse generation. Imbibe the spirit
of Daniel! (Concluded).
