To conform means to adhere to certain norms and standards. As Christians, is that a good thing or not?
Talking Points:
- Conformity means to behave according to acceptable conventions or standards. The opposite of conformity would be like anarchy.
- Conforming can be both good and bad. In our jobs, it’s good to conform to the company values and the objectives handed down from on high if we want to keep our jobs. But, it can be dangerous if we’re conforming to bad influences.
- The Bible talks about not conforming to the patterns of this world but rather be transformed by a changed heart and mind. This transformation happens through a relationship with Jesus.
- As Christians, we should avoid the two-tiered life where in one way we’re good Christians going to church and serving others but in other ways we’re chasing after the almighty dollar and the stuff it can buy.
Quote This:
Romans 12:1-2 And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.
Learn more about Cindy and her book Return to the Wilds.
Talk About It
- What is your initial reaction to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Share a time you felt like you had to conform to something. How did you feel about that?
- Examine your life. Do you feel like you live a two tiered life where it’s hard to live out your faith in certain settings? Explain.
- Read Romans 12:1-2. What are some behaviors that the world deems okay but God doesn’t? How will you let God transform your thinking moving forward?
- Write a personal action step based on this conversation.
