The concept of cultural influence on behavior is a significant theme throughout the Bible, as it addresses how the surrounding culture can impact the beliefs, actions, and spiritual life of individuals and communities. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that illustrate the tension between adhering to God's commandments and succumbing to the prevailing cultural norms.

Old Testament Examples

In the Old Testament, the Israelites were repeatedly warned against adopting the practices of the surrounding nations. God commanded them to remain distinct and holy, as seen in Leviticus 18:3-4: "You must not follow the practices of the land of Egypt, where you used to live, or follow the practices of the land of Canaan, where I am bringing you. You must not walk in their customs. You are to practice My judgments and keep My statutes by walking in them. I am the LORD your God."

The influence of foreign cultures is evident in the account of King Solomon, whose marriages to foreign women led him to idolatry. 1 Kings 11:4-6 states, "For when Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and he was not wholeheartedly devoted to the LORD his God, as his father David had been. Solomon followed Ashtoreth the goddess of the Sidonians and Milcom the abomination of the Ammonites. So Solomon did evil in the sight of the LORD; unlike his father David, he did not follow the LORD completely."

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, the early Christians faced the challenge of living in a pagan society while maintaining their faith. The Apostle Paul frequently addressed the issue of cultural influence in his epistles. In Romans 12:2, he exhorts believers, "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God."

Paul also warned the Corinthians about the dangers of associating with immoral practices prevalent in their culture. In 1 Corinthians 15:33, he writes, "Do not be deceived: 'Bad company corrupts good character.'" This highlights the potential for cultural influences to lead believers away from righteous living.

The Role of the Church

The early church was tasked with navigating cultural influences while spreading the Gospel. The Jerusalem Council in Acts 15 addressed the issue of whether Gentile converts should adhere to Jewish customs. The decision to impose only a few necessary restrictions (Acts 15:28-29) demonstrated a balance between cultural sensitivity and adherence to core Christian principles.

Cultural Engagement and Discernment

The Bible encourages believers to engage with their culture thoughtfully and discerningly. Jesus' prayer for His disciples in John 17:15-16 reflects this balance: "I am not asking that You take them out of the world, but that You keep them from the evil one. They are not of the world, just as I am not of the world." Christians are called to be in the world but not of it, influencing culture positively while resisting its negative influences.

Conclusion

Throughout Scripture, the tension between cultural influence and faithful obedience to God is evident. Believers are called to discernment, ensuring that their behavior aligns with biblical principles rather than the shifting norms of society. The Bible provides guidance and examples for navigating this complex relationship, emphasizing the importance of remaining steadfast in faith while engaging with the world around us.