Intro: Values and standards
competing against each other
Most western countries are pluralistic
in both RACE and RELIGION
Christianity, Islam, Secularism, Materialism and Cults
all competing for the soul of a country
WHO WILL WIN?
[Phil. 2:9-11] == "Every knee will bow ..."
Question: John Stott, "Will Christians be able to influence their country so that the values and standards of God’s Kingdom would penetrate the whole national culture?" [The Living Church: Confessions of Lifetime Pastor]
Ps 45:7
God’s people given a purpose
Preaching gospel making disciples
READ: Matt 5:13-16
1/ Christians radically different from non-Christians
Salt and Light
contrast with their opposites
2/ Christians must permeate non-Christian society
Spiritually and morally distinct but
not socially segregated
"let your light shine’ penetrate darkness
salt must penetrate the meat
not meant to store on shelf
3/ Christians can influence and change no-Christian society
Change their environment
Light dispels darkness
salt preserves and adds flavour
CONCLUSION: If house is dark or meat rots, who is to blame?
READ POEM: "I’m Only One (Edward Everett Hale) The Living Church
