Jesus Was Not a Separatist

Christian Working Woman Transcript

Thursday, December 13, 2007 - Christmas in the Marketplace

As much as we enjoy this time of the year, it's very sad to see people using this holy celebration of our Savior's birth for anything but holy purposes. And nowhere is that more prevalent than in the working world.

Have you ever noticed that people who never give Jesus Christ a thought all year long are more than ready to participate in Christmas celebrations and parties? How should a Christian act and react toward these unholy celebrations?

I would point out that Jesus was not a separatist. He did not, by example or by instruction, tell us to remove ourselves from every situation that was not religious or holy. In fact, He prayed for us in John 17: I do not ask Thee to take them out of the world, but to keep them from the evil one.

We are not called to be separatists. However, that guiding principle has to be balanced with another one as found in

1 Corinthians 10:31: Whether then you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

When we can participate without compromising our standards, when we can join in without giving approval to un-Christian behavior, then we may be able to use these occasions as opportunities. But we need to be well aware of keeping the right balance. Jesus reached out to people in their environment, but He never allowed their environment to penetrate into His mind or His lifestyle. We are in the world, but not of it.

All too often we Christians allow ourselves to be brought down to the level of the unbelievers, instead of vice-versa. If there is any question in your mind that you will be able to keep a strong Christian testimony in the midst of any holiday celebration, then it would be wise to keep yourself separate from those questionable occasions. I know many Christians who will go to a company Christmas party, make an appearance for an hour or so, and then quietly leave before the celebration gets out of hand.

We need to be discerning and wise in determining what is appropriate and what isn’t. One rule of thumb to remember: If in doubt, don’t!