Living in a Post-Christian World

The recent Supreme Court decision to seek to normalize same sex marriage is a wake-up call for me.  That, coupled with an excellent message from my pastor yesterday (see Graceslo.org for a copy of the 7-5-15 message entitled, "What Does the Bible Say about Living in a Post-Christian Culture?"), has reminded me of several important scriptural truths from l Peter 2:13-25 in guiding how I engage the culture today.  Remember the context--Peter is writing to the fledgling first century church living under the tyranny of the Roman government,

1.  It is God's will that "by doing right" we may "silence the ignorance of foolish men".  Here the emphasis is on "right" behavior, verse 15.

2.  If for the "sake of conscience towards God" I endure suffering in doing this, this "finds favor" with God, verse 19.

3.  I have been "called for this purpose, since Christ also suffered for me leaving me an example for me to follow in His steps", verse 21.

Here is the critical point of this passage for me as a disciple seeking to "follow in His steps"; how did Christ, then, model the behavior that I should embrace that is "right"?  Verses 22,23 instruct me.

1.  There must be no "deceit in my mouth"--not a lack of credibility in what I say--that being the measure of my intent and the verifiable connection between what I say and what I do.

2.  I must nor "revile" those who revile me--not threatening naysayers--or seeking to vilify those who criticize or seek to humiliate me.

3.  I must continually "entrust myself to Him who judges righteously", knowing that He is "the Shepherd and Guardian of my soul".  There is an undeniable safety and security in this.

God's Word is clear about the design and sanctity of marriage.  It is so sacred in His sight that He uses it to characterize the mystery of the relationship that exists between Christ and His church.  Though the Supreme Court has acted it has not served to redefine marriage or to normalize same sex marriages.  They remain outside of God's design and purpose for marriage. (See THE MEANING OF MARRIAGE, Tim Keller)

For this changeless truth of God's Word, seeking to model the behavior of Jesus (by grace alone), I will continue in this sadly post-Christian culture, to "speak the truth in love".  I hope you will join me.