Globalization is a term we frequently hear these days. But what does it mean?
“Globalization is the process in which people, ideas, and goods spread throughout the world, spurring more interaction and integration between the world’s cultures, governments, and economies.”
https://searchcio.techtarget.com/definition/globalization
In other words, working together to provide everyone in the globe with the same opportunities and products available to us here in the USA. But, is that a good thing, especially for us as Christians?
Globalization
Before we look at globalization through God’s eyes, let’s look at some examples of the effects it is having in our world. I think the situation with Brexit provides a good starting point. When Great Britain joined the EU, they hoped it would help the European nations compete better on the international stage. But, they soon realized they were losing their identity as a country. Other issues also drove Britain to rethink their position. Now they are locked into a battle to remain unique while the world wants more of the sameness.
In my own country, we hear calls against the praise of nationality in favor of becoming global citizens. Others propose doing away with borders so mankind can move freely between nations in hopes of bettering themselves as we become one world. Individualism and uniqueness lose out to the needs of the masses. On the surface, helping others improve seems like a noble calling. John Lennon even wrote about it in his song, Imagine. Could there be a dark side to this thinking?
The Christian View
The Book of Revelations tells us of the enemy’s plans for a one-world movement. His strategy seeks to destroy Christianity by convincing everyone to embrace the benefits of being alike. Satan wants everyone to follow the broad path instead of the narrow road, which God calls us to walk. And, peace is at the center of our enemy’s call to change. One government offers no need for war. A single currency removes greed. One religion based on love alone would eliminate sin and consequences. But, without Christ, there will be no peace in this world. No matter how the world tries to improve, the seven deadly sins of lust, gluttony, greed, laziness, wrath, envy, and pride will still cause havoc and wrong behaviors.
[bctt tweet="Christians must learn to bounce the words of the world against the words of the Bible."]We already see some of this happening today. Non-Christian religions spout views that we all follow the same God just use different paths. Bumper stickers announce all religions should “coexist.” I saw one the other day that said: “We are all children of the same universe.” Yet, our Bible is explicit on the fact that there is only one true God. Psalm 86:10 is one such example that says, “For you are great and do marvelous deeds; you alone are God.” You can find many others throughout the scriptures.
The Impact
The gods found in other religions are not the same as the one, true God of the Bible. These different faiths also do not believe in Jesus Christ. They might acknowledge Him as a prophet or scholar but not as the Son of God. John 3:16 clearly explains; “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” Without Jesus Christ, there is no salvation.
[bctt tweet="Without Jesus Christ, there is no salvation."]The Bible warns us about the problems we will face for not becoming part of these worldly ways. We find one instance in John 15:19; “If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you.” Christ calls us to stand firm and shine His light into the darkness closing in around us.
Our Choice
Globalization is coming. This way of thinking is not all wrong, and it does bring some benefits. But, as Christians, we must remain vigilant to stand only on the principles of Christ. We must learn to bounce the words of the world against the words of the Bible. The road we walk with Christ is narrow, and few will take it. If we follow Christ’s path, we will face persecution, but the rewards await us in our heavenly home. If we follow the broad way of the world, it will lead us to destruction. Psalm 55:16; “As for me, I call to God, and the Lord saves me.”
“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”
Joshua 24:15
Blessings,
Yvonne M Morgan, #Blogger, #Speaker, #Writer
Matthew 28:19 “Therefore, GO and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.”
100% of the proceeds from sales of my book, Turning Mountains Into Molehills, go to help the orphans at Orphan Relief Effort, Inc
Additional Resources:
I choose to follow Christ, no matter the changes in the government or the world’s discussion of religion. Christ is the center for me, and no form of government will change that, no matter what it is. Like in Daniel’s day, if we must bow to the statue of the deified king, as Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (the names of their birth) were asked to do, yet refused, and then ended up in a fiery furnace, then I will not bow. Each of us must consider the reality of having to stand for our faith in Christ at that moment and to remain firm in our commitment to Jesus.
Amen sister. Thanks and God bless
Interesting perspective on the potential impact of globalization. There are some benefits as you mention but must be careful not to compromise our beliefs in the midst of change.
Very true SA. We must always be on our guard to protect our faith. Thanks and God bless
This is wonderful, Yvonne! I had not thought about globalization in this context before, and I think you said it beautifully. Our identity must be in Christ first and foremost.
It so easy to get sidetracked by worldly ways. We must remember we belong to Christ. Thanks Emily and God bless
I love our increasing ability to share the Good News globally. It makes my heart smile! As a Methodist-church-attending Christian, I love John Wesley’s famous quote, “The world is my parish.” Amen!
Yes, as long as we don’t fall into the trap that a global church which encompasses all religions and believes we all serve the same God. We must try everything the world tells us against the word of God before blindly following. Thanks and God bless
It’s hard to imagine a global identity that can give people pride in their heritage and history. But so few people know history today–at least here in America. God bless!
So true Nancy and thanks. God bless
Yvonne, what an insightful post. You brought out some things I had not thought about. And I agree, while globalization offers a few benefits, overall, the underlying principle is damaging to the Christian world view. In the end, there is NO salvation without Jesus. Amen!
Thanks Karen. Sometimes, it can be so easy for Christians to fall into step with the world without thinking about the impact on our faith. We must be diligent in our firm stand on the gospel. God bless
Interesting. I am hanging my hat on these verses: “Of the increase of His government, there will be no end.” (Isaiah 9:7) And, Habakkuk 2:14, “For the earth will be filled With the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, As the waters cover the sea.”
Good verses to hang your hat on for now and the future. Thanks and God bless.
Such deep spiritual discernment, Yvonne. Of course there are benefits to globalization, but faith in Christ remains now as it always was. He is the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father but by Jesus. Thank you for examining this issue with a spiritual lens to raise our awareness. How easy it is to just go along with the crowd. Oh Jesus, help us stand with you, come what may.
Amen. We need to stand firm as an example for the world. We will need Jesus to help us stay on the narrow path. We can not do it alone. Thanks and God bless.
What a subtle threat this idea of unity is. It plays pin our desire to care about all people and it leaks into various levels in society, social circles, family, and even the church. But we are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, set apart for our one true God. Thank you for writing about this important and often misunderstood topic.
Thanks Stephen. I see so many people using scriptures to promote this new religion that has love but no sin or consequences. We are here to share His light of truth. God bless
could you further explain affirming the faith of the church in the process of globalization such as finance, communications, trade, power, science and technology and their effects on the Christianity today.
I am not sure I understand your request. Could you be more specific.