Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2 NIV
Non-Conformist
Back in 2021 the Confederation of Tomorrow survey by the people at Policy Options discovered this “Two assumptions led to an expectation that compliance might vary significantly across regions of the country. The first is that certain regions (for instance, the West) are more individualistic or non-conformist in outlook, while others (for instance, Quebec) are more collectivist. The second is that certain regions are less supportive of the federal government and therefore less inclined to accept made-in-Ottawa rules.”
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Followers of Jesus have always been non-conformists. It’s why persecution remains so severe in so many parts of the world, and true followers of Jesus never fit in with the thinking and actions of the world. We are called to love the world as Jesus did and to show compassion to all, no matter who or what they are. If we truly have a Biblical worldview, if we truly love Jesus and desire to live and speak as He did, we are going to stand out in contrast to the world. When we refuse to bow to the gods of our age, and proclaim the uniqueness of Jesus, we will not be understood or welcomed. Paul writes this in Romans 12:2: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” What Paul is not saying is that Christians are to be obnoxious. We are simply called to be transformed by Jesus and then live like we are the redeemed, compassionate, hope-filled followers of Jesus, telling the world about His love and grace.
These have been words from the heart.
Bob Beasley