For Us or Against Us (5)
Jesus spoke often to his disciples about the world system with its values and beliefs which are contrary to the system of the Kingdom of God. Jesus spoke of the Devil being the God of this world and even made reference to the Pharisees or religious leaders as being a part of the world system. “You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies” (John 8:44).
Later on in the same chapter, Jesus comforted his disciples about being hated by the world. “If the world hates you, know that it has hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18). It is interesting that the main group of people who hated Jesus and his disciples were the religious leaders of that time. Although in their minds, they represented the Jewish religion, they were referred to as being part of the world system.
James wrote about the world system and what it means for people who love the world. “You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:4).
I know the concept of being in the world but not of the world can be a bit confusing for some people. If we can consider that accepting Jesus Christ and living according to the way that Jesus taught us to live is being of the kingdom, then anything outside of that is being a part of the world system.
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you” (2 Corinthians 6:17).
A.P.-Y.
Published by Anneta Pinto-Young
I am a trained Social Worker who currently provides professional leadership on a programme to support Social Work students and Newly Qualified Social Workers entering the Social Work Profession.
Born and raised in Jamaica in a Christian family where my father is an ordained Pastor and Deacon who has served for over 50 years in the ministry. My father is also a trained musician and our family can be described as a musical family. I grew up in a small farming community in St. Peter’s, St. Andrew and my parents also have a small farm.
I credit my gift of writing to my father who I watched and listened to over the years as he wrote sermons, poems and other recitals in his capacity in ministry. English has always been an easy subject for me and over the years I have developed an increased interest in writing.
I am a Trainer, I sing and have a passion for worship, the spoken word and the free flow of the prophetic anointing. I am married to my best friend Andrew Christopher Young who is an advanced Musician and whose music you can find on YouTube and Facebook. I am a trained Coach and Mentor and I love experimenting with food so I love cooking. I enjoy trying cultural dishes from across the world and I view food as an entry into cultures and languages.
View all posts by Anneta Pinto-Young
Published
March 18, 2021March 22, 2021
