Culture Clashes

 

September 17, 2025

Colossians 2:8 

“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.”



When we talk about culture, we recognize that it carries values, assumptions, and philosophies that often do not agree with the gospel's teaching and message.  Paul’s warning in Colossians is urgent: Don’t be taken captive. That is strong language by the Apostle, strong language because the danger is real and serious.

I believe when we stop and think about it, we recognize that we are  not just surrounded by ideas; we’re being shaped by them. Whether it is from entertainment, education, politics, personal identity, the world presents a way of living that often subtly, and sometimes blatantly, replaces Christ with false truths.

As one writer put it, "the clash isn’t always loud." Isn't it true that sometimes it’s a slow drift, toward Choosing comfort over conviction, valuing significance over righteousness, and making popularity more valued than goodness and integrity. The outcome of this is captivity, says the Apostle Paul.

Paul's words remind us that true wisdom, true freedom, and true identity are found in Christ alone. Not in the newest trends. Not in a tight grip on tradition. Not in spiritual forces that "masquerade" as knowledge or some higher enlightenment.

The message around us in our contemporary culture says things like:

“You define your own truth.”
“Faith is fine—as long as it’s private."
“Don’t offend—just blend.”

But we hear Jesus say something very different:

“I am the truth.” (John 14:6)
“Let your light shine before others.” (Matthew 5:16)
“Do not be ashamed of the gospel.” (Romans 1:16)

To follow Jesus is to live in tension with the world. This tension is not met by hostility, but with a "holy" resistance. The call of the Gospel is not to escape culture, or build some protective walls around us, Jesus, and the New Testament writers, offer the challenging call to engage with our culture with truth and grace. 

“Let your light shine before others.” means we take the step of "holy" resistance. Speak the truth. Live boldly. Let our faithfulness and commitment be unmistakable: Christ over culture.

Let's Pray

Jesus, help me to see clearly where culture is pulling me away from You. Give me discernment to recognize deceptive philosophies. Strengthen me to stand firm in truth, even when it is unpopular. May my life reflect Your wisdom, Your love, and Your courage. Amen.