What Sets You Apart from the World: Transcendental Christian Values

As Christians, we are called to be different from the world around us. What sets us apart from the world are essentially the values that the world does not possess or fully understand. Here are some of these values, accompanied by biblical references to better illustrate their importance:

1. Practice Agape Love

Agape love is an unconditional and selfless love that comes from God. This love is an essential characteristic of Christians. The Bible teaches us that true love transcends the natural and overcomes selfishness. This love is defined by actions, and gestures that show our compassion and dedication to others.

1 Peter 4:8 reminds us: “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” This love that covers a multitude of sins comes from Jesus Christ, who died for the sins of the world. Without knowing and living in Christ, it is impossible to love to the extent of Christ.

2. Passion for Truth, Justice, and Righteousness

Christians are called to seek and defend truth, justice, and righteousness. These values are often in contrast with the norms of the world, which can be marked by deceit, injustice, and immorality.

Micah 6:8 tells us: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

3. The Way of Thinking, Acting, and Reacting

The way a Christian thinks, acts, and reacts should reflect the teachings of Jesus. We are called to be living examples of God’s word in our daily lives. This means we must show patience, kindness, humility, and forgiveness in our interactions with others.

Romans 12:2 exhorts us: “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.”

4. The Way of Perceiving the World and Viewing People Who Do Not Know God

Christians see the world and people who do not know God through the lens of love and mission. We are called to be witnesses of the Gospel, to share the good news of Jesus Christ with compassion and respect, understanding that each person is created in the image of God.

Matthew 28:19-20 commands us: “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Conclusion

These distinctive values—agape love, passion for truth, justice, and righteousness, our way of thinking, acting, and reacting, and our perception of the world and non-believers—set us apart from the world. By embracing and living these values, we shine the light of Christ in a world often plunged into darkness, and we honor our call to be the salt and light of the earth (Matthew 5:13-16).