Counsels on Church Life

Counsel #7 — Rethink Culture

Picture: Counsel #7 — Rethink Culture CCL 86.1

In one country, missionaries arrived and started a church. But despite converting several locals, they struggled to retain them. What was the problem? Eventually they discovered it was a cultural issue. The local people typically sat on the floor. But when the missionaries built the church, they installed pews like in their home country. The locals felt uncomfortable attending church because of this. When the pews were finally removed, attendance and retention suddenly increased.^[115] This is a reminder that while doctrine is non-negotiable, cultural practices can and should be adapted to.^[116] Paul the Apostle adapted his ministry to Jews and Gentiles because he knew the difference this could make. CCL 86.2

“And to the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might win Jews;” 1 Corinthians 9:20 CCL 86.3

“Teach the people to conform in all things to the laws of their state when they can do so without conflicting with the law of God.” Ellen White in Testimonies for the Church, vol. 9, p. 238.3 CCL 86.4

Reflect: How can you bridge the gap between Christianity and culture without compromising truth? CCL 86.5