Friday, November 14: Today’s episode explores what Jesus meant when He prayed that His followers would be “in the world but not of the world.” Though the exact phrase isn’t in Scripture, Jesus clearly expresses this idea in John 17 when He asks the Father to send His people into the world while protecting them from becoming shaped by it. We look at how this concept has been misunderstood, misapplied, and even avoided because it forces us to live in real spiritual tension. Many Christians have historically either withdrawn from the world or blended into it, and neither approach reflects Jesus’ intention. The episode explains why living in this holy tension is difficult and why it requires deep dependence on Jesus, humility, discernment, and courage. We also explore how cultural engagement often becomes combative rather than compassionate, and how that misses Jesus’ heart. From there, the episode offers five practical ways to live this out: being present, refusing to compromise or weaponize truth, developing a biblical filter, staying on mission, and holding onto hope. Ultimately, Jesus calls His people to enter the world with love and clarity while remaining anchored in a different kingdom. This episode encourages listeners to show up in their everyday spaces with grace, discernment, and confidence in Christ. It’s an invitation to embrace the tension Jesus prayed we would carry.
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