Being counter-cultural and why it is good for me
By Randell Tiongson on October 22nd, 2024
The biblical worldview is truly counter-cultural, and I’ve found that living by it transforms my life in the best ways, even when it stands against the grain of society. In a world that often promotes self-sufficiency, moral relativism, and instant gratification, the Bible calls me to live by a higher standard, one rooted in God’s truth, humility, and love.
Self-denial vs. self-gratification
One of the most counter-cultural teachings of the Bible is the call to deny myself. While the world often says, “Do what makes you happy” or “Follow your heart,” the Bible teaches the opposite: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me” (Luke 9:23). It’s not about living for my own desires but about surrendering those desires to follow Jesus. This is tough in a culture obsessed with self-fulfillment, but I’ve found that true joy comes not from chasing what I want but from seeking God’s will for my life.
Humility over pride
In today’s world, pride is often celebrated—whether it’s about accomplishments, personal identity, or material success. Yet the Bible flips this on its head. It tells me, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble” (James 4:6). It reminds me that my worth is not in what I achieve or how I compare to others, but in my relationship with God. Living in humility before God keeps my soul grounded, knowing that it’s His grace that defines my value, not my performance or status.
Absolute truth vs. relative truth
One of the hardest aspects of a biblical worldview to embrace in today’s culture is the belief in absolute truth. The world often tells us that truth is subjective and that everyone can have their own version of it. But Jesus says, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). This is radical because it asserts that there is one ultimate truth, and it’s found in Christ. While the culture encourages me to define my own truth, the Bible calls me to align my life with God’s truth—and that truth is freeing for my soul.
Living for others over living for myself
The biblical worldview is deeply centered on love and service. In contrast to the cultural mantra of “looking out for number one,” the Bible tells me, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3). This shift from self-centeredness to selflessness is challenging but life-changing. When I live to serve others and reflect Christ’s love, my soul finds a deeper sense of purpose than when I’m only focused on my own needs.
Why it’s good for my soul
Ultimately, living by a biblical worldview sets me free in ways that nothing else can. Jesus tells us, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). The world’s pursuit of success, happiness, and approval is exhausting, but Christ offers a different kind of rest—one where my identity is secure in Him, where I’m not striving to meet the world’s ever-changing standards, but resting in the unchanging love and truth of God.
The Bible’s counter-cultural teachings shape my character, remind me of my true purpose, and draw me closer to God. Living by these truths may seem radical in today’s world, but it’s the path to true peace and fulfillment for my soul.