Don't be squeezed into the world's mould - By Karl Faase, Olive Tree Media

When Paul wrote to the church in Rome, he said that the followers of Jesus should “…not be conformed to the pattern of this world but transformed by the renewing of your mind” (Romans 12:2). One commentator has translated this idea as “don’t let the world squeeze you into its mould”.

But if we are to resist being squeezed into a mould, we have to recognise that the mould exists, and identify its form.

US-based authors Lyons and Kinnaman write in their book Good Faith that modern Western society has a new moral code, which they call ‘the morality of self-fulfilment’. They cite attitudes like “the best way to find yourself is by looking within yourself”, and “people should not criticise someone else’s life choices” as central to this code.

It is not difficult to recognise that some recent controversies have occurred because individuals in Australia have broken this new moral code and have paid a high price for their opinions.

But as Christians, we are compelled to resist any shifts in what society considers ‘moral’, and instead look to God for our standards.

So, what should we do to be sure we are not being squeezed into the world’s mould?

One crucial thing we must do is set aside our desire for popularity. Follow the example of Jesus and pay close attention to His words. In verses, not often quoted, Jesus told His followers…

“If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you” (John 15:18-19).

It is regularly stated that the people loved Jesus, and it was only the religious leaders whom Jesus annoyed. But that is only partially true. In John 6, Jesus’ interaction with ordinary people does not go well and in fact many turn away from following Him.

It’s in this situation that Jesus turns to His disciples and asks, “Do you want to leave as well?” Tough question. They reply, “Where else can we go you have the words to eternal life” (John 6:66-69). They know this may not be popular, but it is true.

All of us living in comfortable and affluent Western nations must daily remind ourselves that our quiet and easy lives can have the outcome of squeezing us into a worldly mould. Let’s seek to remain faithful to the truth in a society that is regularly shifting its values.

A documentary, course and book seriesjesusthegamechanger.com | by olive tree media