Being in the world, but not part of it
Back when I was in college, when Contemporary Christian Music was just starting
to gain acceptance, I and a whole bunch of others attended a Petra concert -- part of
their "Not of This World" tour. The emphasis on the name was that though we live in
this world, as Christians we are no longer a part of it due to Christ's salvation.
But, that doesn't mean we should totally separate ourselves from the world. For the
sake of bringing others before Christ we still need to interact with non-believers.
Jesus Christ was constantly seen among sinners, always drawing heat from the
religious rulers of his day. As Christians we are called to follow his example --
not to isolate ourselves from non-believers, but to live among them showing them the
way. Fellowshipping with other Christians is important; but if all you do is spend
time with fellow Christians, then how are other non-Christians suppose to see Jesus
living in you?
Be in the world, but not a part of it so that others may see Jesus living in you.