The world is a scary place. Many Christians I meet avoid the secular world at all costs. They do not want their children tempted by Satan, but more importantly, do not want to be tempted themselves by things of this world. They live a sheltered life, but they know Jesus, accept him as their lord and savior and pass this on to their children. This is a noble way to live, but is this the way we, as Christians, should interact with the world?

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

Romans 12:2 NIV

Scripture directs us to do the opposite of hiding from a secular world. We are to put on the armor of God and go out into the world and with confidence tell everyone about Jesus.

“Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

Ephesians 6:11 NIV

Jesus commands us to continue the work he started and do what God is calling us to do. In the second chapter of Ephesians, Paul tells us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Through Jesus, we are a new creation and are designed to do good things in his name. Works are not required for salvation, but we do them because of our salvation.

“Again Jesus said, “Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you.””

John 20:21 NIV

We feel that it is our responsibility as parents to protect our children from the craziness of the world, and that is okay, but it does not mean living in a bubble. So, go out into the madness and proclaim that Jesus Christ is Lord! You won’t save everyone, but you may plant many seeds! Remember, out of the over 7 billion people in the world, Jesus wants every one of them.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.”

John 3:16-17 NIV

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