The term "world", as it is used throughout the New Testament, often refers to the vast world system that exists independent of God (going its own way without regard for God) and basically opposed to Him. It is how things in the world have operated ever since the first humans gave in to satan's temptation, disobeyed God and brought the curse of sin upon all creation. As a result of defying God, humankind gave up the authority over creation that God had originally delegated to them. satan then seized control (John 12:31; 14:30; 16:11) and began to dominate human endeavors (ideas and efforts) with his evil purposes (1 John 5:19). This means that the "world" in its present condition is characterized not only by wicked, immoral and selfish lifestyles, but also by a spirit of rebellion and indifference toward God and His revelation. This attitude is characteristic of all humans and human endeavors that are not submitted to Christ's leadership and authority.
Consequently, satan often uses the world's ideas of morality, its philosophies and its social customs to oppose God, His people, His Word and His standards (Matt. 16:26; 1 Co. 2:12; 3:19). Most of these issues and areas of life are not evil in and of themselves, yet satan will work through any or all of them to promote his purposes and cause spiritual deception. For example, educational systems may be used to nurture students in ungodly and humanistic philosophy, or more subtly, the clothing industry can be greatly used to promote general habits of dress that would definitely bring shame and offence to those who live according to the standards given by God for his people. Christians must be aware that behind all human endeavors, apart from God, there is a spirit or power that moves against God and His Word in varying degrees. Finally, the "world" also includes unbiblical religious systems and organizations that use the name of Christ or His family of believers, yet teach and encourage lifestyles contrary to God's true church and standard of holiness that are given in His Word.
The world and the true church are two distinct groups of people. The world is under satan's authority; the church belongs exclusively to God. For this reason, true believers must separate themselves from the ungodliness and corruption of the world.
In the world, God's people are aliens and strangers, simply passing through on the way to their true home with God. They do not belong to the world, but are called out from it (John 15:19). As a result, they no longer conform to the world's patters or love the things of the world. Through a relationship with Christ, God's people overcome the world and its evil.
Loving the world is a form of spiritual idolatry and unfaithfulness that defiles our relationship with God and leads to spiritual destruction. It is impossible to love the world and God the Father at the same time. To love the world means to be closely related to and associated with its beliefs, behaviors and customs. It means being devoted to or accepting of its values, interests, practices and pleasures. It involves taking pleasure in or enjoying what is common in the world, but is offensive to God. Notice that the term "world" and "earth" are not synonymous; God does not forbid us to appreciate and admire the beauty of the created earth. While we are to hate the corrupt ways of the world, we also are to demonstrate God's compassion for people who are spiritually lost.
According to 1 John 2:16, three aspects of the sinful world created open hostility to God and promote defiance against His Word: "The cravings of the sinful man" (1 Co 6:18) ; "the lust of the eyes" (Exodus 20:17)); "the boasting of what he has and does" (or pride).
Christ's followers must not be in close companionship with those who participate in the world's evil system and corruption. Instead, believers must live in a way that is distinct from the world and that exposes the world's evil. Christians must be salt and light to the world. This means reflecting God's character and love so that those who are lost can see the hope that is found only through a relationship with Christ.
From the world, a true Christian will experience trouble, hatred, persecution and suffering. By various forms of temptations, enticements and attractions of the world, satan makes a determined effort to destroy the life of God in the Christian and to ruin his or her relationship with Christ.
The world system is temporary and will eventually be destroyed by God. Even now, it is in the process of passing away (1 John 2:17).
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