Separation

 

The order in scripture is clear.
“Be separate.”

Second Corinthians 6:7 says, “Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them… don’t touch their filthy things and I will welcome you.”

The Message version says it, in part, this way, “Don’t link up with those who will pollute you.”

John 17:14 says, “…the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world.”

Jesus didn’t belong to the world.
It was not His home.
He lived separate.
He was heavenly-focused.

And He called His followers the same.
“They do not belong to this world any more than I do.”  17:16

We don’t belong to this world.
It is not our home.
We are to live separate.
We are to be heavenly-focused.

And the bottom line is that there should be some plain differences between the life of a Christ-follower and of people who’s portion is in this world.

The Jesus-people ought to look different.
And be completely unrecognizable from those whose eyes are earth-centered.  Those who are swayed by circumstances, disturbed by disobedience, and consumed with evil and negativity.


Can we say it of ourselves?


And if not, why?


It’s worth asking the hard questions if it serves to make us more like Jesus.