Faith
Guidance for Christians in a Hostile World
Jesus Christ delivered a stark warning to His disciples about the hostility they would face from the world, as recorded in John 15:19: “If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you.” This profound statement underscores the inevitable conflict between followers of Christ and a world that often shuns the light of truth.
The hatred that the world bears for believers stems from a deep-seated aversion to the light of Christ, which exposes the moral failings and spiritual void in those who reject Him. As Jesus explained, “For everyone who does evil hates the Light, and does not come to the Light lest his deeds be exposed” (John 3:20). This illumination not only reveals individual sins but also highlights the general estrangement from God.
In today’s political climate, though the winds may shift, the spiritual challenges facing Christians remain constant. The call to be both salt and light—preserving godliness and illuminating the path to salvation—demands active engagement rather than retreat from societal participation. How, then, can Christians navigate their role as ambassadors for Christ without succumbing to passivity?
Addressing this crucial question, Natasha Crain, in her new book, When Culture Hates You: Persevering for the Common Good as Christians in a Hostile Public Square, offers vital insights for standing firm in faith while advocating for righteousness in an increasingly dark world. Her work aims to equip believers with the knowledge necessary to effectively engage with contemporary issues in a manner that honors God.
Throughout her book, Crain delves into several contentious topics, providing guidance on how Christians can respond with both conviction and grace. Her approach is not just about defense but about positive engagement in the public square for the common good.
Later in our program, we will explore further dimensions of Christian engagement with society. Pastor Jamie Bambrick, Editor-In-Chief of Clear Truth Media, will discuss in the second part of our interview how misprioritized love has contributed to the decline of Western civilization. This discussion aims to shed light on the cultural shifts that have distanced society from its foundational Christian values and how believers can respond to these changes with informed compassion and unwavering faith.
This conversation is crucial for any Christian seeking to navigate the hostility of today’s culture while maintaining a firm commitment to the principles of the Gospel. It provides a roadmap for living out the Christian faith boldly and effectively in a world that often opposes it.
Faith Facts
- October is Pride Month in South Africa and also features International Religious Freedom Day on October 27.
- Freedom of Religion or Belief (FoRB) is protected by international agreements and is a core Christian value.
- In Africa, state persecution of both Christians and homosexuals is on the rise, making FoRB increasingly important.
South Africa marks Pride Month in October, a time to reflect on the significance of freedom of belief for all people. On October 27, International Religious Freedom Day reminds us of the value placed by Christians on the right for everyone to practice their faith or beliefs without coercion or fear.
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and similar documents affirm that freedom of thought, conscience, and religion must be protected for everyone.
“Everyone shall have the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.”
Christian values encourage standing up for the rights of all individuals to live out their beliefs. Advocates like the late Rev. Dr. Joel Edwards have made biblical cases for robust religious freedom.
FoRB is a human right meant to protect not just Christians but all people, including those with different beliefs or lifestyles. This ensures everyone can live in accordance with their conscience while respecting the dignity of others.
“FoRB protects the right to be a homosexual as much as it protects the right to be a Christian.”
Across Africa, where Christian faith is embraced by the majority and religious leaders are trusted, these principles take on added weight. Sadly, state restrictions and persecution against both Christians and homosexuals continue to rise, underlining the need for courage and conviction from believers.
We are called to do unto others as we would have them do unto us, honoring freedom for everyone and resisting unjust coercion.
Let us stand steadfast in our faith, championing God-given freedoms for all people in our communities and across the world.
Faith Facts
- The Nashville Church of Christ must return $440,000 to a missionary trust fund and transfer control to Crieve Hall Church of Christ.
- This settlement resulted from a lawsuit over misuse of funds intended for mission work as arranged by a member’s will.
- The court appointed new trustees so the trust will continue to support missionary work as originally intended.
The Nashville Church of Christ in Tennessee has agreed to restore a trust fund meant for missionary endeavors after a court-approved settlement.
This outcome resolves a legal dispute involving the church, Tennessee’s Attorney General, and mismanagement of church assets, with a renewed focus on biblical stewardship.
“The trust was given … for the benefit of missionary endeavors according to the discretion of the elders.”
Under the agreement, the trust—originally valued at $303,356 in 2018 and now $440,000 including interest—will be overseen by elders of the nearby Crieve Hall Church of Christ, keeping the mission in line with Christian intent.
This decision ensures that church resources are returned to their divinely purposed use, reaffirming a commitment to faith-driven ministry and accountability.
Christian stewardship requires honoring commitments and using resources for God’s glory. Stand firm in supporting transparency and faithfulness within our churches.
Faith Facts
- Rodrigo Paz Pereira thanked God for his election victory, highlighting the importance of faith in leadership.
- Paz’s Christian Democratic Party ended two decades of left-wing rule in Bolivia by securing nearly 55% of the vote in the runoff.
- Both Paz and U.S. officials emphasized a new era of partnership built on shared values and commitments.
Bolivian president-elect Rodrigo Paz Pereira expressed deep gratitude to God during his victory speech, attributing his leadership to divine guidance. He spoke of faith, strength, and the foundations of God, family, and homeland for Bolivia’s future.
“I want, first of all, to thank our God for his energy, for his faith, for his strength, for his audacity,” Paz declared.
He emphasized the audacity and courage provided by the Lord to make decisions for the nation’s good. The Bolivian people have elected a leader who upholds Christian values and prioritizes faithful stewardship.
“God, family and homeland are the foundation of a vision we have regarding our commitment to all of Bolivia, to all Bolivians,” he stated.
Rodrigo Paz promised to serve wholeheartedly, acknowledging God’s blessing over his mission for Bolivia. The Christian Democratic Party’s significant victories in both legislative chambers reflect the nation’s renewed commitment to faith and principled leadership.
“God bless you,” Paz concluded, pledging to work diligently for the people and the nation under God’s providence.
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