As the followers of Jesus Christ we have a unique culture. I am defining culture here as an assumed set of laws, values, standards and priorities. And it should be observed that different cultures have a way of clashing. There are some things as simple as how difficult it is for a fellow from north of the Mason/Dixon line to fit in with those who are born and raised south of the same line. The differences between European folks and American folks, even though they may speak the same language, are quite substantial.
Paul addresses this issue in the book of First Corinthians as he confronts this group of people with their failure to observe and preserve the unique culture of Believers.
1 Corinthians 6:6 But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.
Paul is citing here the believer’s failure to recognize, esteem and preserve their own culture. Some are so simple-minded as to relegate this culture to something so singular as love. However, it is far more than that; it is a culture that is formed and fenced with all the standards and boundaries of the Bible.
Paul commissions us with the obligation to understand this culture, to apply this culture to our lives and to preserve it at all personal costs.
1 Corinthians 6:7 Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?
The Bible-culture is a wonderful culture and it is a costly culture. And so our Lord says, “Take up your cross and follow Me.”
