We are not of this world
For here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come. (Heb. 13:14)
There is a divine tension between the heavenly and the earthly. We are called to be salt and light in this world while at the same time we are made aware that this world is not our home. We are seeking a home that is to come.
Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight, that I should not be delivered to the Jews: but now is my kingdom not from hence. (Jn. 18:36)
If Jesus was not encouraging His disciples to overthrow Rome in their time, are we called to overthrow the “Rome” of our time? Is there a difference between going into all the world to make disciples, and going into all the world and taking dominion?
For the form of this world is passing away. (1 Cor. 7:31)
What was Jesus’ perspective in His last prayer before His arrest?
I have given them Your word. And the world has hated them because they are not of the world, just as I am not of the world…. They are not of the world even as I am not of the world. (John 17:14 and 16)
Jesus is not of this world, nor are we. I believe that Christians should certainly seek to influence our culture and stand for truth in the midst of the darkness. But we must realize that this world system will only be subdued by the King at His coming.