I am fascinated to see this extremely popular (reemerging) version of Christian; most specifically the Christian who thinks it necessary to look and act like the world – in a supposed interest to reach the world for Christ. The favorite proof-text is of course “I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some (1Corinthians 9:22).” Much has been sacrificed on the alter of this verse.*
I imagine some of this is a reaction to the world-as-the-bad-guy thinking that dominated much of the church. I also assume that some of this is done in a naïve fashion. And let me also add that I can understand the goal and the perspective, to a degree. But while I agree that we should not hole up in monasteries nor hiss and spit at the unbeliever, I must also ask, “What happened to personal holiness?”
What ever happened to,
“Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? Or what harmony has Christ with Belial, or what has a believer in common with an unbeliever? Or what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, “I will dwell in them and walk among them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people. Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate,” Says the LORD (2Corinthians 6:14-17).
How have the words of Peter been lost in the mix?
“prepare your minds for action, keep sober in spirit, fix your hope completely on the grace to be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, “You shall be holy for I Am holy.” (1Peter 1:13-16)
*To rebut this idea I would tell the reader to note the context of this powerful statement of Paul. This is made in the midst of a discussion regarding Christian liberty and is then followed by a discourse on the need for extreme self discipline and godly living. This is not a justification of licentious living, rather it is just the opposite.
