* What is cultural Christianity and how does it differ from biblical Christianity?

What is “cultural Christianity,” and how does it differ from “biblical Christianity”? I’m interested in understanding the specific beliefs, practices, and values that define each term. Furthermore, can you provide examples of cultural Christianity in contemporary society, highlighting instances where its expression might conflict with or diverge from core tenets traditionally understood as biblical Christianity? What are the potential positive and negative consequences of cultural Christianity’s influence on society and the church?

Answer

Cultural Christianity refers to the appropriation of Christian symbols, language, and values by a broader culture, often detached from core Christian beliefs and practices. It encompasses a range of phenomena where Christianity is associated with national identity, moral frameworks, or social traditions, even among individuals who may not profess Christian faith or adhere to its tenets.

Biblical Christianity, in contrast, emphasizes adherence to the teachings of the Bible as the inspired Word of God. It centers on personal faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, acceptance of the Bible’s doctrines, and a lifestyle reflecting biblical principles.

Here’s a more detailed comparison:

Source of Authority:

• Cultural Christianity: Draws authority from cultural norms, traditions, and societal values that are often perceived as being influenced by Christian history. This authority is often filtered through secular interpretations and can be selective in which aspects of Christian heritage are emphasized. National identity, perceived moral order, or nostalgia for a "Christian" past often supersede strict adherence to scripture.
• Biblical Christianity: Places the Bible as the ultimate source of authority for faith and practice. Doctrines, ethical guidelines, and worship practices are derived from interpreting and applying biblical texts. The Bible is considered inerrant (in its original manuscripts) and the standard by which all other sources of authority are evaluated.

Basis of Identity:

• Cultural Christianity: Christianity serves as a marker of cultural or national identity. One might identify as "Christian" due to heritage, citizenship in a historically Christian nation, or agreement with certain culturally perceived Christian values (e.g., family values) without necessarily having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ or participating in Christian community.
• Biblical Christianity: Identity is rooted in a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, evidenced by faith, repentance, and obedience to God’s commands. Being a Christian is not primarily about cultural heritage or national affiliation, but about a spiritual transformation and commitment to following Christ.

Core Beliefs:

• Cultural Christianity: May involve a vague or diluted understanding of Christian doctrines. Emphasis may be placed on general moral principles or sentimentalized versions of Christian stories, without a deep understanding or acceptance of doctrines like the Trinity, the divinity of Christ, the atonement, or the resurrection. Individuals within cultural Christianity may hold diverse and even contradictory beliefs regarding the nature of God, salvation, and the afterlife.
• Biblical Christianity: Requires adherence to core Christian doctrines as articulated in the Bible and historical Christian creeds (e.g., the Nicene Creed). These doctrines include belief in one God in three persons (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), the incarnation of Jesus Christ, his death and resurrection for the forgiveness of sins, and the necessity of faith in Christ for salvation.

Practice and Observance:

• Cultural Christianity: Participation in Christian rituals may be infrequent, nominal, or motivated by cultural expectations rather than personal faith. Attendance at church may be limited to holidays or special occasions. Behavior may not reflect biblical standards of morality.
• Biblical Christianity: Entails regular participation in Christian community (e.g., church attendance, fellowship), prayer, Bible study, and acts of service. Followers strive to live in accordance with biblical principles in all areas of life, including personal conduct, relationships, and social responsibility. The Christian life is viewed as a process of ongoing growth and transformation.

Motivation and Purpose:

• Cultural Christianity: Motivation may stem from a desire to maintain social cohesion, preserve traditions, or promote certain moral values within society. The purpose of Christian affiliation may be primarily social or political, rather than spiritual.
• Biblical Christianity: Motivation arises from a love for God and a desire to follow Jesus Christ. The purpose of life is to glorify God, to love and serve others, and to share the gospel with the world. Salvation and eternal life are central to the Christian’s hope and motivation.

Social Impact:

• Cultural Christianity: Can contribute to a sense of national identity and shared values, but may also lead to the exclusion or marginalization of those who do not conform to culturally defined Christian norms. It can also be used to justify political agendas or social inequalities.
• Biblical Christianity: Calls for Christians to be agents of reconciliation, justice, and compassion in the world. While acknowledging the reality of sin and brokenness, followers strive to promote positive social change in accordance with biblical principles. This often involves advocating for the poor, marginalized, and oppressed.

Pray This Prayer

Heavenly Father,

My heart feels a tension, a dissonance, as I grapple with the concepts of cultural Christianity and biblical Christianity. The world throws its own reflections onto your image, creating shadows and distortions that can easily lead astray. I pray for clarity of vision, a discernment sharpened by your Holy Spirit.

Forgive me when I prioritize comfort, tradition, or social acceptance over the radical call of your Gospel. Forgive me when I allow cultural norms, even those cloaked in religious language, to dilute the pure, unadulterated truth of your Word.

Help me to understand, Lord, the subtle ways that cultural Christianity might be infiltrating my own heart and mind. Show me where I am accepting a watered-down version of your teachings, a faith that seeks to be palatable to the world rather than transformative and challenging.

Grant me the strength to examine my beliefs and practices, comparing them relentlessly to the scriptures. Grant me the courage to dismantle any idols of comfort or convenience that I have erected in your sacred space.

I long for a faith that is rooted solely in your Word, a faith that is lived out in obedience and love, even when it is unpopular or difficult. Give me the boldness to stand firm in your truth, even when cultural pressures urge me to compromise.

Help me to see cultural Christianity for what it is: a reflection of human desires, often disconnected from the heart of your Gospel. Help me to embrace biblical Christianity, a faith that demands surrender, humility, and a relentless pursuit of your will.

Fill me with your Holy Spirit, so that I may discern the difference between the fleeting trends of culture and the eternal truths of your Word. And may my life be a testament to your unwavering grace and love, a beacon of authentic faith in a world that desperately needs to see your true light.

In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.