Sometimes we wonder, how it was possible to live in this world, with all its temptations and distractions, and still follow Christ. The phrase “in the world but not of the world” sounded like an impossible task—how could I navigate my daily life without getting caught up in everything around me?
Over time, I discovered that this teaching is about our identity in Christ, not isolation from the world. As believers, we’re called to live among others but with a mindset and purpose that reflects the Kingdom of God.
At its core, being “in the world but not of the world” means living physically in this world while maintaining a heart and mind focused on Christ’s values. The Bible reminds us that we are citizens of heaven (Philippians 3:20, NLT) and that while we engage with the world around us, we should not be shaped by it (Romans 12:2, NLT). Our call is to influence the world, not to be influenced by it.
But there’s more to this—God’s Word offers even deeper wisdom on how to live out this calling.
Understanding the Biblical Foundation
The concept of being “in the world but not of it” comes directly from Jesus’ teachings. In John 17:14-16 (NLT), Jesus prays for His disciples, saying, “I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world.” Here, Jesus distinguishes His followers from the world, setting them apart by their identity in Him. We, too, are set apart as Christians, called to live differently than those who don’t yet know Christ.
But what does it mean to be set apart? It’s important to understand that being “not of the world” isn’t about withdrawing or isolating ourselves. In fact, earlier in the same prayer, Jesus says, “I’m not asking you to take them out of the world, but to keep them safe from the evil one” (John 17:15, NLT). Jesus wants us to remain in the world, fully engaged, but protected by God’s truth and strength as we navigate the temptations and challenges around us.
Being in the world means participating in everyday life—work, relationships, and even the culture—without adopting the world’s values or letting them shape who we are. We’re called to live with a Kingdom perspective, seeking to honor God in everything we do. One practical way to live this out is by regularly reading Scripture to stay grounded in God’s truth. Psalm 119:11 (NLT) says, “I have hidden your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.” Filling our hearts and minds with the Word protects us from the worldly influences that try to pull us away from God.
Transforming Your Mindset
Romans 12:2 (NLT) provides clear guidance on how to live in the world without conforming to it: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.” The key here is transformation—allowing God to renew our minds so that our thoughts, desires, and actions reflect His will, not the world’s.
It’s easy to get caught up in worldly pursuits like material success, social status, or personal gratification. These things often promise happiness but leave us feeling empty. By contrast, when we seek God’s Kingdom first (Matthew 6:33, NLT), we align our priorities with His, and He promises to take care of our needs. A transformed mindset is one that values eternal things—love, faith, and service—over temporary gains.
A practical way to pursue this transformation is through prayer. Ask God to help you see the world through His eyes, to discern His will in your decisions, and to give you the strength to resist the pressures to conform. When we pray for wisdom and guidance, God is faithful to lead us. James 1:5 (NLT) says, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”
Living as Light in the Darkness
Jesus calls us the light of the world (Matthew 5:14-16, NLT). This means we have a responsibility to reflect God’s love and truth to those around us. Being “in the world but not of it” doesn’t mean withdrawing from people or situations that don’t align with our faith. Instead, it means stepping into those spaces with the light of Christ, showing others what it means to live for God.
It can be tempting to blend in, to avoid standing out as a Christian, especially in environments that aren’t receptive to the gospel. However, we’re not called to blend in—we’re called to stand out. Jesus said, “No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house” (Matthew 5:15, NLT). We’re meant to shine, to be visible examples of Christ’s love, grace, and truth in every situation.
One way to live as light is by showing kindness and compassion, even when it’s difficult. In my own life, I’ve found that offering grace in challenging situations can open doors for deeper conversations about faith. Simple acts of love can speak volumes, especially when the world around us expects conflict or division. As Colossians 3:12 (NLT) instructs, “Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.”
Engaging the Culture Without Compromise
As Christians, we live in a world filled with media, politics, and social movements, many of which don’t align with biblical values. How do we engage in these spaces without compromising our faith? The answer lies in discernment—knowing when to speak, when to listen, and when to stand firm in our convictions.
In Matthew 10:16 (NLT), Jesus gives His disciples an interesting instruction: “Look, I am sending you out as sheep among wolves. So be as shrewd as snakes and harmless as doves.” We are to be wise, understanding the culture we live in, but also innocent, avoiding any actions or attitudes that could harm our witness for Christ. This requires staying rooted in God’s Word and being sensitive to the leading of the Holy Spirit in our daily interactions.
One practical way to engage with the culture is to be informed. Stay aware of what’s happening in the world, but filter everything through the lens of Scripture. When faced with difficult decisions or conflicting messages, return to God’s Word for clarity and direction. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NLT) reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.”
Final Thoughts: A Kingdom Perspective
Being “in the world but not of the world” is about living with a Kingdom perspective. We are here to make an impact, to share God’s love, and to point others to the hope we have in Christ. But our ultimate home is not here—our citizenship is in heaven (Philippians 3:20, NLT). This truth should shape every aspect of how we live, reminding us that while we engage with the world, we don’t belong to it.
Our goal is not to escape or withdraw but to influence the world for Christ, living as His ambassadors until He returns. Let’s embrace this calling with boldness, knowing that God equips us to live out our faith, even in the midst of a broken and fallen world.