How can Christians balance being “in the world but not of it”

[Mary Naeem]

How can Christians balance being “in the world but not of it” when it comes to friendships?


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This question touches upon a fundamental challenge of Christian life. We are called to be “in the world but not of it,” as our Lord Jesus prayed for His disciples in John 17:14-16. This delicate balance requires wisdom, discernment, and a deep rootedness in our faith.

To be “in the world” means that we do not isolate ourselves from those around us. We are called to engage with our society, to build relationships, and to be a light in the darkness. As the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13), we are meant to bring flavor and preservation to our communities. This involves forming friendships with people from all walks of life, including those who do not share our faith.

But to be “not of the world” reminds us that our ultimate allegiance is to God’s Kingdom. Our values, priorities, and behaviors should be shaped by the Gospel, not by the prevailing culture around us. In our friendships, this means that while we love and accept people as they are, we do not compromise our own convictions or participate in behaviors that go against God’s will.

Show genuine interest in and care for your friends’ lives, joys, and struggles, regardless of their beliefs.

Pray for your friends and seek opportunities to share God’s love with them through your words and actions.

Remember, that Jesus Himself was criticized for being a “friend of tax collectors and sinners” (Luke 7:34). Yet it was through these friendships that He brought the transformative power of God’s love to those who needed it most. Let us strive to follow His example, being fully engaged with the world around us while remaining firmly rooted in our faith and identity in Christ.