Table of Contents
A Very Bad Idea
It is a very bad idea to add to, or take away from the Word of God. Likewise it is a bad idea to filter the Word of God through culture. In the end, we will ultimately answer to God; even though society would have us believe we answer to it. Society forgets, it too will give an account the Lord. No one is exempt. As disciples of Jesus Christ, we should be filtering culture through the Word as God intended.
2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad (see also Romans 14:10).
It is important we do not succumb to the fear of man. That fear can lead to compromise, which includes trying to bend Scripture to fit the whims of culture. How many of those whims are self-destructive? Would you try to stop a friend from jumping off a cliff, or would you give him or her a push for good measure? Why would anyone seek to embrace, or endorse something that is detrimental to another? Is that love? Love removes the fear of rejection, and speaks the truth for the other’s benefit. Whose acceptance carries the most weight, God’s or society’s?
Matthew 10:28 And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear Him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
Some things culture wants to normalize actually causes them harm, even though it thinks otherwise. For instance, whatever takes a person in the opposite direction of being God’s image, leads to misery. We are the most joyful when we fit our design -and yes, the happiest. Anything else leads to confusion and discontentment, as well as self-destructive behavior in many cases. Truth be told, those who reject God and His ways will never know true joy, peace and love.
What’s New?
Ecclesiastes 1:9-10 The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun. Is there anything whereof it may be said, See, this is new? it hath been already of old time, which was before us.
Culturally speaking, there is nothing new (technology aside). All the so-called new fads and behaviors have been around for centuries. Oh sure, if you stick to recent history, you might make an argument for progressive ideas being new; however, when looking as far back as possible, you’ll discover they are not all that original. It would probably be more accurate to say these ideas are cyclical in nature. Looking at recent history again, we find hairstyles make the rounds. For example, the buzz cuts of the 50s have resurfaced in current times. Don’t be surprised if you see bell-bottoms and elephant pants make their debut again -just kidding.
Think about what things you consider new, then dig into history and see what you find. More than likely, you will see the same cultural patterns appear, disappear and reappear throughout all previous centuries. Comparing the nations of the past to the present makes it even more evident. Humanity is always changing, because it’s unstable in all its ways.
Culture Cannot Change God’s Word
Hebrews 13:8-9 Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever. Be not carried about with divers and strange doctrines (teachings).
Malachi 3:5 For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.
God’s Word and ways do not change, because He does not change. Fortunately for us, He is faithful and steadfast. Culture does not dictate anything to Him. If He was like us humans, more than likely none of us would be here right now. Could you imagine what life would be like if He was subject to mood swings? What if He constantly changed His mind? How secure would you feel? Also fortunate for us, He cannot lie (see Hebrews 6:18). There is a reason He is also known as our Rock!
Psalm 18:2 The LORD is my Rock, and my Fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my Strength, in whom I will trust; my Buckler, and the Horn of my salvation, and my High Tower (see also Psalms 18:46; 28:1; 31:2-3; etc.).
