What does it mean to be in the world, but not of the world?
14 I have given them your word, and the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 15 I do not ask that you take them out of the world, but that you keep them from the evil one. 16 They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world. 17 Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth. 18 As you sent me into the world, so I have sent them into the world. John 17:14-18
Six Principles:
- Live by God’s word.
- Accept the world will hate you.
- We are in the world.
- Remember your new identity.
- We are to be set apart.
- We are sent.
We are not to align or partner with the world’s lifestyles and beliefs.
14 Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? 15 What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? 16 What agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God;
2 Corinthians 6:14-16a
How do we respond to being canceled or banished?
Principle 1: Accept their right to choose: And the younger of them said to his father, ‘Father, give me the share of property that is coming to me.’ And he divided his property between them. Luke 15:11
Principle 2: Failure and/or hardship motivates change: 17 “But when he came to himself… he arose and came to his father. Luke 15:17-20
Principle 3: God loves them more than we do: But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embraced him and kissed him. Luke 15:20
Principle 4: Accept we are on opposite pages: 25 “Now his older son was in the field, and as he came and drew near to the house, he heard music and dancing…28 But he was angry and refused to go in. His father came out and entreated him, Luke 15:25-28
Principle 5: Pray, Love, Wait: 31 And he said to him, ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that is mine is yours. 32 It was fitting to celebrate and be glad, for this your brother was dead, and is alive; he was lost, and is found.’” Luke 15:31-32
Big Idea: The “you” is more important than the position. First, love the “you.”