The world around us is teeming with culture—music, language, beliefs, and daily life. These elements influence how people think, behave, and relate to one another. As Christians, we are not called to sit on the sidelines, passively observing the shifts in society. Instead, we are called to engage, to be on the frontlines, making a transformative impact as salt and light in a world desperately in need of truth.
Core Values That Guide Us
At its heart, being on the frontlines means embracing proactive engagement with culture and community. This involves embodying the core value of choosing action over complacency. It’s not about maintaining a “holy huddle” or retreating into comfort zones. Instead, it’s about courageously stepping into the messiness of life to share Christ’s love and truth.
Culture is Influence. Whether through art, language, daily life, or government, culture shapes the way people perceive reality. As Christians, our role is to influence culture, not be shaped by it. The question is: are you an influencer, or are you sitting on the couch?
Jesus: The Ultimate Frontline Leader
Jesus didn’t retreat from the culture of His day. He entered it, engaged with it, and transformed it. He boldly declared, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18). This declaration reminds us that Christ’s Kingdom is advancing, and as His followers, we are called to actively participate in this mission.
Standing Firm in a Shifting Culture
In Ephesians 6:10-18, Paul describes the armor of God, urging believers to stand firm against the schemes of the devil. Our battle is not against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces of darkness. The tools God gives us—truth, righteousness, faith, and His Word—equip us to engage culture with boldness and integrity.
Lessons from History
America’s foundation was deeply influenced by biblical principles. Schools, courts, and governance were once aligned with Christian values. Over time, however, Christians began retreating, allowing secular influences to take hold. The result? A culture increasingly disconnected from its moral foundation.
But all is not lost. The same God who moved through history to establish His Kingdom on earth is still at work today. The question is: will we, as His followers, rise to the challenge?
Becoming an Influencer for Christ
To live on the frontlines means:
- Engaging the World with Courage: Stop watching from the sidelines. Get involved in your community, workplace, and government. Whether it’s running for office, volunteering, or simply building relationships, there are countless ways to make a difference.
- Standing for Truth: Our culture often distorts what is right and wrong. As Christians, we must stand firmly on the truth of God’s Word, even when it’s uncomfortable.
- Living as Salt and Light: Matthew 5:13-16 calls us to be the salt and light of the world. This means preserving what is good, illuminating what is true, and drawing others to Christ through our actions and words.
- Advancing the Gospel with Love: Being on the frontlines doesn’t mean fighting with anger or hostility. It means loving boldly, forgiving readily, and sharing the good news of Jesus with compassion and grace.
A Call to Action
Every Christian is an ambassador for Christ. This role is not optional; it’s part of our identity. 2 Corinthians 5:20 reminds us, “We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making His appeal through us.”
Ask yourself: Are you influencing culture, or is culture influencing you? Are you on the frontlines, or are you stuck on the sidelines? God has equipped you with everything you need to make a difference—now is the time to act.
Step Out in Faith
Influencing culture begins with surrender. It’s about saying, “Lord, I trust You. Use me.” Whether it’s through engaging in conversations at work, volunteering in your community, or stepping into leadership roles, your obedience can have eternal impact.
Let this be the year you leave the sidelines. Stand firm. Speak boldly. Love deeply. Live out the mission God has given you. The frontlines are calling—will you answer?