Being separate from the world means refusing a way of life others still expect us to share.
1 Peter 4:3-5 3For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. 4 With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; 5 but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
Believers are separate from the world. Peter has already established this truth when he said Christians are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, and a holy nation. This is a confirmation of Jesus’ words: “You are not of the world.” In fact, we have never been of this world because Christ chose us out of the world at the beginning of time. Yet, because of sin, we behaved as if we were until the proper time came when Christ rescued us.
Before Christ became our Lord, we lived in accord with human cravings, in a conduct typical of unbelievers. Not all of us may have engaged in drunkenness and orgies in our old lives, but all of us lived in sensuality and self-centeredness before Christ. If given the opportunity, we may have indulged ourselves in everything that satisfies the lust of the flesh. Such is the condition of fallen man. Hopeless, always aspiring to become a better version of himself, but having no power to do so.
When we were born again, our nature changed, and so did our priorities. Now, we know we have nothing to do with drinking parties and lawless idolatry. We did not only cease to conform to Gentile behavior but also dissociated from bad company, evoking the surprise of our former associates. As a result of us no longer joining them in their reckless living, they turn against us in mockery and contempt.
This should not surprise the believer, for what the world does not understand, it condemns. Our separation is not an act of self-righteousness, but the inevitable result of our transformed nature. Having been brought out of darkness, we can no longer find pleasure in what enslaved us once. The world may judge and reject us now, but it will ultimately give account to Him who judges the living and the dead. Therefore, let us endure reproach with faith and humility, knowing that our lives are lived before God, not man.
Lord, strengthen my heart to live faithfully as those You have called out of darkness into light. Grant me humility and courage to endure reproach, seeking Your approval above all else.
Leave a Reply