What does "not take them out of the world" imply for Christians today? Setting the Scene in John 17:15 “I am not asking that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one.” (John 17:15) • Spoken hours before the cross, this prayer reveals the heart of the Savior for every follower, then and now. • The phrase “not take them out” shows deliberate intent: believers are meant to remain embedded in ordinary society. Why Jesus Chooses to Leave Us Here • Continuation of His earthly ministry—Acts 1:1 speaks of “all that Jesus began to do and to teach”; His work continues through us. • Display of grace—Titus 2:11-12: “The grace of God … instructs us to live sensible, righteous, and godly lives in the present age.” We model that grace. • Opportunity for witness—Philippians 2:15: “You are to shine as lights in the world.” Our presence brings gospel light into dark places. • Preparation for eternity—James 1:2-4 shows trials develop maturity; staying here refines faith for future glory. Guarded but Engaged “Keep them from the evil one” balances the command to stay. • Divine protection: 1 John 5:18, “The One born of God keeps him, and the evil one cannot touch him.” • Personal vigilance: Ephesians 6:10-18 outlines the armor of God—spiritual resources to stand firm while remaining active in the culture. • Corporate support: Hebrews 10:24-25 urges assembling together; community buffers believers from isolation and compromise. Practical Implications for Christians Today Daily life - Integrate, don’t insulate—work, learn, and serve among unbelievers while maintaining distinct values (Matthew 5:13-16). - Cultivate holiness in common places—home, office, marketplace, digital spaces (1 Peter 1:15-16). - Refuse escapism—avoid retreating into entertainment or sub-cultures that bypass real-world engagement. Workplace - See employment as assignment—Colossians 3:23-24. - Speak the truth with grace—Ephesians 4:29. - Model integrity that sparks gospel conversations—1 Peter 3:15-16. Community - Advocate for what is good and just—Micah 6:8. - Serve the vulnerable—James 1:27. - Build genuine friendships that display Christ’s love—John 13:35. Home - Disciple the next generation where life happens—Deuteronomy 6:6-7. - Open doors in hospitality—Romans 12:13. - Let worship shape everyday rhythms—Colossians 3:16-17. Living as Pilgrims, Not Tourists • Philippians 3:20 reminds us our citizenship is in heaven, yet we are ambassadors on earth (2 Corinthians 5:20). • Balance expectancy and responsibility: Titus 2:13 calls us to look “for the blessed hope,” while verse 12 commands upright living now. • Embrace tension: Hebrews 13:14—“We do not have an enduring city here, but we are looking for the one to come.” Staying engaged while longing for Christ’s return is normal Christian life. Summary “Not take them out of the world” means purposeful presence. Believers remain where God has placed them—protected from the evil one, equipped by the Spirit, and commissioned to shine the gospel until Christ brings us home. |
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