Cultural Considerations

The church has always had to navigate a tricky course when it comes to the pull and pressure of the surrounding culture. We're told not to be "conformed to the pattern of this world" (Rom 12.2). And yet Paul says that he makes every effort to engage people through the surrounding culture ("I have become all things to all people so that I might, by all means, save some." 1 Cor 9.22). So, which is it? Are we to engage culture and use it to share the Good News of God's love in a way that is culturally relevant and accessible? Or are we to do so by actively working against the prevailing culture?

My answer? Yes. This isn't an "either/or" question; it's "both/and." This Sunday we're going to look some more at the distinctions made in the early church between Jews and Gentiles. It was a huge debate: do people need to become Jews in order to be true followers of Jesus? Acts 15 answers this question clearly and finally -- all people are called to follow Jesus and do not need to be circumcised (i.e. follow the Jewish Law) in order to do so.

So then, why does Paul have Timothy circumcised when he decides to take him along on his next missionary journey (Acts 16.1-5)? And more importantly, what does this have to do with us today?

Please join us this Sunday at 10am to find out. Or on the web at www.nassagaweya.com and follow the link to "Sermons". Hope to see you soon!