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Cultural Influence
There is no question that culture influences behavior. Culture as used in this
article is defined as an accepted behavior in and among a community. That does
not mean that everyone in that community goes along with such culture, but the
culture is usually tolerated so as to lessen any controversy.
Culture is very strong for many people around the world. Often times, culture
dictates how we live. Even those cultures that claim to be "Christian"
in nature allow their culture to influence them. The ideal is where the Bible
influences the culture. It used to be that way in America. But the culture of
America now rejects the Bible as a standard of authority. America has lost its
edge by allowing people to dictate what is acceptable instead of allowing God
to dictate what is acceptable.
We see this in various cultures that treat people differently. Many treat women
as nothing more than sex objects and property. Many women are abused, and they
take it, because that is what the culture is. Many have a superstitious culture
that seeks to worship spirits and idols. Some cultures have accepted that the
men cheat on their women, and lately the women are doing the same. Some cultures
have no problem breaking the law, as they create their own rules and laws as
they see fit.
We can see that many churches have allowed the culture of the community to direct
their paths. Thus preaching is not focused upon any sins that may be present,
as that might make people uncomfortable. It is sometimes amusing, even though
very sad, that we see internet videos of people really acting the fool in supposed
church services. We are commanded that our worship services be conducted decently
and in order (1 Corinthians 14:40). Clapping, dancing, running around, shaking
the body, playing of music are all things that could be considered cultural
for some, yet have no place in the kingdom of God.
The American culture has transformed into a society void of God. This is obvious
as you watch the behavior of many people. Sadly this culture has not been condemned
from the pulpits of the land. In fact, those who occupy the pulpits are some
of the worst by not condemning culture that is opposed to the Bible.
When many in society can persecute Christians and be hailed as heroes, while
godless individuals are having praises heaped upon them, something is wrong.
A football player that prays is shunned, while one comes out as gay is exalted
by so many.
While some cultural behavior is certainly against the teaching of the Bible,
there is another culture that is not breaking God's law per se. Our society
has grown to allow each person to be their own judge of their own actions. Thus
we cannot tell someone what they are doing is wrong. So we just keep to ourselves
and our little private community. This is a reason that many churches do not
grow anymore. People get in a rut, and expanding the envelope of comfort is
not encouraged or in some cases, tolerated. We have become a people that amuse
and occupy ourselves with what the world has to offer, and spend very little
time in seeking the things that will bring about eternal life in heaven.
We need to encourage everyone to return to the Bible and live according to its
standard, and not allow culture to dictate our course of action.
By Carey Scott
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