Embracing Our Role as Christians in a World with Evil
In a world where many may feel overwhelmed by the presence of evil, it’s essential to remember that evil is as pervasive as the air we breathe. However, as believers in Christ, we are called to a higher purpose. Instead of hoping to escape this planet, we should focus on fulfilling our calling to be the light in a world surrounded by darkness. Let us explore how we can do this and become more Christ-like in our actions.
**The Unavoidable Reality of Evil**
Evil is a part of this world we inhabit. Just as we cannot escape the air that surrounds us, we cannot fully escape the presence of evil surrounding our lives. The Bible itself acknowledges the existence of evil, as we see in Ephesians 6:12 (KJV): “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Even though it’s referencing the first century, the symbolism also applies today. In Revelation 22:14-15 “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city. For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.” In the New Jerusalem is the tree of life but outside the gates is darkness (evil).
**Our Calling as Believers**
Instead of being consumed by the darkness, we are called to be the light. In Matthew 5:14-16 (KJV), Jesus tells us, “Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick, and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”
**Lifting Up Our Neighbors in Love**
We must also embrace our role as beacons of love. Galatians 5:22-23 (KJV) reminds us of the fruit of the Spirit: “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such, there is no law.” Our actions should reflect the love of Christ, and by doing so, we can inspire and uplift our neighbors.
**Resisting Brainwashing and Warmongering**
The media and politicians often perpetuate fear, division, and conflict. As believers, we must resist the temptation to be brainwashed by their narratives. Instead, we should remember Philippians 4:8 (KJV): “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”
**Reflecting Christ’s Character**
Our ultimate goal is to reflect the character of Christ in all that we do. We find a beautiful description of this in Colossians 3:12 (KJV): “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering.” Christ’s character is our example, and as believers, we should strive to emulate it.
In conclusion, evil is indeed present in our world, much like the air we breathe. However, rather than hoping to escape, we are called to be the light, to love our neighbors, to resist negative influences, and to reflect the character of Christ. By doing so, we can make a profound impact in a world that so desperately needs it.