Romans 12:2

The theme of the last three months was „The pattern of this world“. In Romans 12:2 the apostle Paul admonishes us not to conform to the patterns of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. So I tried to dismantle some of the patterns of which we are often not aware, because we grew up with them and live and breathe in them - and I tried to point out what Christ’s perspective and alternative could be.

In the end I guess the question is „How can we be part of our society without identifying completely with it?“ or „How much can we dare to differ - as teachers or privately - without becoming outcasts?“ In Christian history, there were and are always radical believers who chose to separate themselves completely from society: monks, nuns and hermits. Yet they contributed significantly to our culture - with hospitals, science, schools, Bibles …

I think we Christians (pardon the generalisation!) tend to be too intimidated by „the world“. We lack awareness of the treasures we have to offer. Let’s practice being bolder!