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In the world, but not of the world?
excellenttrader:
Hey gang,
Anybody else heard of the saying that, "We are to be in the world, but not of the world?" That phrase has been going through my mind a bit lately. I thought it was a paraphrase of a bible verse, but when I did a search for it, I couldn't find it. Then I did a search here in the forum and didn't find anything that fit either.
I was hoping that if it is a part of a bible verse, someone could point me to it. Also, if Ray has addressed it somewhere already and someone knows where he talked about it I'd appreciate it if you could show me.
Finally, what do you guys feel it really means to not be of the world in this phrase?
When I've heard it used, typically it seems a justification for not being in the military or for not getting involved with politics. With all of the political stuff in the news lately I see lots of Christian friends getting on the bandwagon and sending me emails about whatever candidate they are supporting or bashing. So, this has gotten me to wondering if we should or shouldn't be involved in politics and if there are other things we also shouldn't be involved in. For example, although there are many great organizations and causes, what's the difference between being in a...pro life group or environmental group or animal rights or whatever versus a political group? Or is there a difference at all with regards to being in the world? Not sure that you can draw a specific line in the sand and say this group is okay but that one isn't as far this topic goes, but I was hoping to get more of an idea from others so I can make sure that my perspective on it is scripturally accurate.
And while I'm at it, I got to thinking that maybe this statement, if looked at from more of a spiritual view, is really talking about us focusing on being spiritual in our lives and not carnal...or avoiding the lust of the eyes, flesh and pride of life which is what the world is about.
Thanks for the help,
Mike
Deborah-Leigh:
Hi Mike
I too had a similar question to the one you present here in the Forum. Here is the reply!
The "world" represents two entities in Scripture: [1] The Church, Judaism, the Whore, Mystery Babylon the Great, and [2] The social system of the the nations in general.
Jesus referred to both in John's Gospel account:
"...but be of good cheer; I have overcome the WORLD" (John 16:33). What "world?" Did He overcome China? Japan? Indolnesia? No, Jesus overcame the world of Judaism--"He came unto His own [the Jews] but they received Him NOT," and hence He had to overcome them all the days of his earthly ministry.
But in John 17:24 read, "...for You loved Me before the foundation of the WORLD" is speaking of the whole "kosmos"--the whole system of world governments.
Jesus prayed for NEITHER of these two "worlds," as their destiny is solidly fixed by God's divine providence, and therefore prayer would be of no value. Jesus does not pray that His Father's Prophecies should NOT come to pass, and neither do God's Elect pray such nonsense as is parroted daily over the air waves "pray for world peace." Nonsense. There will be no world peace--God has already decreed it.
God be with you,
Ray
http://www.forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,1348.0.html
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
Matt:
Out of the "world" and in to "Christianity", or if you prefer,
out of the "frying pan" and in to the "fire" ;D
Matt
Deborah-Leigh:
I was asked yesterday if I was Jewish. I said no. Then I was asked if I was a Christian. I said no, that I am neither Jewish nor Christian but am a Bible believer! They understood! They caught the meaning! It was pleasant too.
OH I should say that the fact that I am studying the original texts and not relying on TRANSLATIONS or opinons, had already been explained to them! ;)
Peace to you
Arcturus :)
winner08:
Great topic: How does one live their life in this world without becoming part of this world we live in? With all that daily life demands of each of us, how do you not become part of this world? This verse keeps coming to my mind. Render onto Ceasers what is Ceasers and render onto Gods what is Gods. If this was good enough for Jesus it"s good enough for me (Just my personal opinion).
Darren
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