Understanding ‘Not of This World’: Bible Study

What does “not of this world” mean in a biblical context?

When exploring the phrase “not of this world” within a biblical framework, it is essential to delve into its theological and spiritual underpinnings. This phrase finds its roots in the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles, encapsulating the idea that believers, though physically present in the world, are called to live by the values and principles of the heavenly kingdom. In John 17:16, Jesus prays to the Father, stating, “They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” This declaration underscores a profound distinction between the realm of human existence and the divine order that Christians are summoned to embody. 

The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this concept in his epistles. In Philippians 3:20, he asserts, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” Here, Paul emphasizes that Christians, by virtue of their faith, possess a dual identity—they reside on earth, but their true home and allegiance are in heaven. This notion is intended to shape how believers engage with the world, urging them to prioritize spiritual matters over earthly concerns. Paul calls on Christians to set their minds on things above, not on earthly things (Colossians 3:2), fostering a vision of life that transcends temporal desires and anxieties. 

The early Church Fathers also addressed this theme, reinforcing the transformative power of aligning one’s life with heavenly values. They taught that believers are to live as “sojourners and exiles” (1 Peter 2:11), navigating this world without becoming ensnared by its fleeting attractions. This does not imply a rejection of the world or its inhabitants but rather a commitment to living in a way that reflects God’s love, justice, and mercy. The believer’s mission is to be a beacon of hope and righteousness, drawing others towards the eternal truths of the gospel. 

In summary, the biblical concept of being “not of this world” invites Christians to: 

• Embrace a heavenly citizenship while living on earth.
• Prioritize spiritual values and eternal truths over temporal concerns.
• Live as examples of God’s love and righteousness.
• Maintain a perspective that sees beyond the fleeting nature of worldly attractions.

What does it mean for Christians to live as “not of this world”?

Living as “not of this world” for Christians is a profound spiritual calling that demands a reorientation of values and priorities. This concept, deeply rooted in biblical teaching, serves as a reminder that our true citizenship lies in heaven, not on earth. As the apostle Paul poignantly states in Philippians 3:20, “But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” This means embracing a life that transcends worldly pursuits and ephemeral desires in favor of eternal truths and divine purposes. 

To live as “not of this world” is to reject the values and practices that are diametrically opposed to the teachings of Jesus Christ. The world often celebrates materialism, self-centeredness, and moral relativism. In contrast, Christians are called to embody the virtues of humility, selflessness, and absolute adherence to God’s truth. This countercultural stance requires daily effort and dedication, as believers strive to align their actions and thoughts with the principles of the Kingdom of God. 

Furthermore, embracing a “not of this world” mentality encourages believers to focus on heavenly things rather than temporal passions. Colossians 3:2 exhorts, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” This shift in focus prompts Christians to invest time and energy in activities that glorify God and advance His kingdom on earth. Whether through acts of service, worship, or evangelism, the goal is to reflect the character and love of Christ in every aspect of life. 

Moreover, embodying a “not of this world” ethos involves enduring hardships and persecutions with grace and hope. Jesus Himself warned in John 15:18-19, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 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.” This acknowledgment of potential suffering is intertwined with the promise of divine support and the assurance that ultimate victory lies with Christ. 

Ultimately, living as “not of this world” is not about isolation or withdrawal from society. Instead, it is about engaging with the world through the lens of God’s truth and love, seeking to transform it for His glory. As Jesus prayed in John 17:15-16, “My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from the evil one. They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.” Christians are to be in the world but not of it, serving as beacons of light and agents of change. 

Summary 

• Christian living “not of this world” emphasizes heavenly citizenship and aligning with eternal truths.
• Rejecting worldly values in favor of Christ-like virtues is essential.
• Focus on divine purposes over temporal desires, investing in God’s kingdom.
• Endure hardships with the hope of Christ’s ultimate victory.
• Engage with the world to transform it, acting as agents of God’s love and truth.

How do the teachings of early Church Fathers address the idea of being “not of this world”?

The teachings of the early Church Fathers provide profound insights into the concept of being “not of this world.” These spiritual guides and theologians, who shaped the early Christian community, consistently emphasized a life of holiness, detachment, and anticipation of the heavenly kingdom. Their reflections illuminate how believers are called to live in the physical world while holding an eternal perspective. 

One prominent voice among the early Church Fathers, St. Augustine of Hippo, articulated a vision of earthly life as a journey toward the “City of God.” He proposed that Christians should view their time in this world as temporary sojourners, whose true citizenship is in heaven. Augustine asserted that earthly pleasures and material possessions should not dominate the life of a believer but should be used in ways that reflect God’s glory and purposes. 

Similarly, St. John Chrysostom, known for his eloquent preaching and ascetic lifestyle, exhorted Christians to distinguish themselves from worldly ways through their actions and character. He frequently preached about the dangers of wealth and pride, encouraging believers to embrace humility and generosity as marks of their heavenly nature. Chrysostom’s life and teachings highlight the call to embody the kingdom values of love, charity, and simplicity. 

Moreover, St. Irenaeus of Lyons, in his work “Against Heresies,” addressed the tension between the transient nature of this world and the eternal reality of God’s kingdom. Irenaeus rejected the futile pursuits of earthly honor and fame, instead advocating for a life of faith and obedience to God’s commands. His theological perspective reinforced the idea that true fulfillment and identity are found in relationship with the divine, rather than in human achievements or possessions. 

The synthesis of these teachings reveals a consistent thread: early Christian leaders urged followers to prioritize their spiritual lives over worldly concerns. They stressed that a “not of this world” mentality required a clear focus on God’s kingdom, fostering virtues such as humility, patience, and love, which were seen as reflective of a heavenly citizenship. 

• St. Augustine emphasized viewing life as a journey toward the “City of God” and de-emphasized material possessions.
• St. John Chrysostom encouraged humility and generosity, warning against wealth and pride.
• St. Irenaeus advocated for faith and obedience to God over seeking earthly honor and fame.
• Early Church Fathers consistently taught prioritizing spiritual life and kingdom values over worldly concerns.

What are the historical contexts of the early Christian understanding of being “not of this world”?

The early Christian understanding of being “not of this world” is deeply rooted in the historical and cultural contexts of the first-century Greco-Roman world. This concept can be traced back to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles, who often emphasized the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal promise of God’s Kingdom.

Early Christians lived under Roman rule, a time marked by significant social and political upheaval. This environment posed a moral and spiritual challenge, as the values promoted by the Roman Empire often starkly contrasted with the teachings of Christianity. 

For example, the empire was characterized by a focus on power, wealth, and social stratification, while Christian teachings advocated for humility, self-sacrifice, and equality before God. One of the foundational texts for this understanding is Jesus’ proclamation in John 18:36, where He states, “My kingdom is not of this world.” This declaration set a clear distinction between the temporal powers of earthly kingdoms and the divine authority of God’s Kingdom.

 Additionally, the apostle Paul, in his letters, frequently reminded believers of their status as “citizens of heaven” (Philippians 3:20) and encouraged them to “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things” (Colossians 3:2). The early apologists and Church Fathers, such as Justin Martyr and Tertullian, further developed this theme. They defended Christianity against accusations of disloyalty to the empire by arguing that Christians serve a higher, spiritual authority. Justin Martyr, in his “Apologia,” emphasized that Christians, although obedient to the laws of the land, ultimately pledge their allegiance to Christ.

Similarly, Tertullian wrote about the Christian’s dual existence in the earthly city and the heavenly city, echoing the sentiment that true life lies beyond the physical realm. The concept also found practical expression in the lives of early Christians who often faced persecution for their faith. 

Their willingness to endure suffering and even death rather than renounce their beliefs was a powerful testament to their conviction that their true home was not in this world but in the Kingdom of God. This steadfast faith, amidst trials, underscored their allegiance to a higher moral and spiritual order.

• Early Christian understanding emerged from the first-century Greco-Roman context.
• Roman values often contrasted with Christian teachings of humility and equality.
• Jesus’ proclamation in John 18:36 distinguished between earthly and divine kingdoms.
• Apostle Paul reminded believers of their heavenly citizenship (Philippians 3:20).
• Church Fathers like Justin Martyr and Tertullian emphasized allegiance to Christ above the empire.
• Persecution of early Christians highlighted their belief in a higher spiritual authority.

How does the notion of being “not of this world” influence Christian views on materialism?

To grasp how the notion of being “not of this world” influences Christian views on materialism, we must first understand the biblical perspective on wealth and possessions. The scriptures frequently warn against the dangers of materialism, illustrating how the preoccupation with earthly riches can distance an individual from God. For instance, in Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus instructs His disciples to “store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” 

This directive underscores a fundamental Christian principle: the temporal nature of material wealth versus the eternal value of spiritual wealth. As Christians are called to be “not of this world,” they are encouraged to adopt an eternal perspective—where their focus is on heavenly and spiritual matters rather than earthly gains. This perspective is echoed throughout the New Testament, particularly in the teachings of Paul. In Colossians 3:1-2, Paul exhorts believers to “set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” 

By eschewing materialism, Christians aim to align their lives with the values of God’s kingdom, which emphasizes spiritual richness and moral integrity over physical wealth. The early Christian community practiced communal sharing of resources as described in Acts 2:44-45, where believers “had everything in common” and “sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” This practice was a practical demonstration of living “not of this world,” prioritizing the well-being of the community and trust in God’s provision over individual accumulation of wealth. 

Moreover, adopting a “not of this world” mindset involves recognizing that ultimate contentment and security come from a relationship with God, not from material possessions. This is articulated in Hebrews 13:5, which advises, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’” This promise reassures believers that God’s presence and provision are sufficient, allowing them to live generously and without attachment to worldly riches. 

• The scriptures frequently warn against the dangers of materialism.
• Jesus and Paul both urge believers to focus on eternal, not earthly, treasures.
• Early Christian communities practiced communal sharing of resources.
• Christians believe ultimate contentment and security come from a relationship with God.

What is the relationship between “not of this world” and Christian hope in the afterlife?

The phrase “not of this world” deeply intertwines with the Christian hope in the afterlife, painting a vivid picture of a life oriented toward eternity. Fundamentally, this notion suggests that believers, while residing temporarily on Earth, hold their true citizenship in Heaven. This concept is profoundly rooted in biblical teachings, urging Christians to cultivate an eternal perspective, focusing not merely on what is seen and temporal but on what is unseen and everlasting. The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, underscores this truth by proclaiming, “But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ“ (Philippians 3:20 ESV). This statement reinforces the belief that Christians are sojourners and pilgrims on Earth, whose ultimate home is with God. The transient nature of earthly life is highlighted in passages like 2 Corinthians 4:18, which calls believers to look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen, for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. Furthermore, the hope of the afterlife is intricately connected to the resurrection of Jesus Christ, which serves as the cornerstone of Christian faith. In 1 Corinthians 15:54-55, Paul speaks of the transformation that awaits believers, “When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: ‘Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’” This passage offers profound comfort and hope, affirming that through Christ’s resurrection, death is not the end but the gateway to eternal life. Living with the hope of the afterlife motivates Christians to lead lives marked by holiness, devotion, and a commitment to God’s commandments. The anticipation of an eternal dwelling with God transforms how believers view earthly struggles and successes. It encourages a life of faithfulness and perseverance, recognizing that the trials of this life are momentary and prepare believers for an eternal weight of glory far beyond comparison (2 Corinthians 4:17).

• The hope of the afterlife is a central tenet of Christian faith, anchored in biblical teachings.
• Believers are encouraged to focus on eternal, unseen realities rather than temporary, earthly matters.
• Paul’s teachings in Philippians and Corinthians highlight the temporary nature of earthly life and the eternal destiny of believers.
• The resurrection of Jesus Christ is a cornerstone of the Christian hope in the afterlife.
• This hope motivates Christians to lead holy, devoted lives in anticipation of their eternal home with God.

What is the significance of Jesus’ prayer in John 17:16-19 regarding His followers being “not of this world”?

The prayer of Jesus in John 17:16-19 is a profound declaration of the spiritual identity and mission of His followers. “They are not of the world, even as I am not of it,” Jesus proclaims, separating His disciples from the worldly systems and values that stand contrary to God’s kingdom. This distinction is not merely about a future heavenly residence, but about a present, transformative reality that believers are called to embody every day. 

Jesus continues, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.” Here, sanctification denotes a process of being set apart for sacred purposes. Truth, as found in God’s Word, becomes the agent of this sanctification. Just as Jesus is consecrated and sent into the world, His disciples are also sent, bearing a message and lifestyle that challenge the world’s ways. The essence of being “not of this world” is thus intimately connected with the mission and character transformation believers undergo through the truth of Scripture. 

Moreover, Jesus’ prayer encapsulates His deep concern for the spiritual welfare and distinctiveness of His followers. His petition reflects, “As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world. For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.” The act of sanctification He envisions is not an isolated event, but a dynamic, ongoing process intricately tied to their mission and identity in Christ. 

In the broader context of John’s Gospel, this prayer underscores the cosmic battle between light and darkness, truth and falsehood. By emphasizing their separateness from the world, Jesus calls His followers to embody a higher standard, reflecting the divine nature amidst human societies. It is a call to live with an eternal perspective, directing hearts and minds toward the realities of God’s kingdom rather than transient worldly pursuits. 

In summary: 

• Jesus declares His followers are not of this world, distinguishing their spiritual identity.
• Sanctification through truth (God’s Word) is integral to this identity and mission.
• Jesus’ prayer emphasizes the ongoing process of being set apart for God’s purposes.
• The distinction from the world aligns believers with their mission to transform and enlighten.
• This prayer invites believers to adopt an eternal perspective, focusing on divine realities over worldly pursuits.

What is the Catholic Church’s stance on being “not of this world”?

The Catholic Church upholds a profound understanding of being “not of this world,” deeply rooted in Scripture and the teachings of the early Church Fathers. This principle signifies a call for believers to transcend the immediate, temporal concerns of earthly life and orient themselves towards the eternal truths of God’s kingdom. In essence, it is an exhortation to live out one’s faith in a way that reflects the ultimate destiny and hope found in Christ. 

Drawing from the Gospel of John 17:16-19, where Jesus prays for His disciples, the Church emphasizes the necessity of Christians to be distinguished from the secular world, while still actively engaging within it. This dual-call for separation and engagement underscores the Church’s mission to be a transformative presence that elevates society through the values of the Gospel. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The Church… is the visible plan of God’s love for humanity, because God desires ‘that the whole human race may become one People of God, form one Body of Christ, and be built up into one temple of the Holy Spirit’” (CCC, 776). 

The writings of early Church Fathers such as St. Augustine and St. John Chrysostom further elucidate this idea. St. Augustine’s notion of the “City of God” as opposed to the “City of Man” articulates that believers are citizens of a heavenly city and should live accordingly, with an eternal perspective guiding their actions and priorities. Similarly, St. John Chrysostom emphasizes that while Christians live in the material world, their hearts and minds should be set on the spiritual and the eternal. 

Practically, the Church teaches that being “not of this world” means living out the Beatitudes, participating in the sacraments, and engaging in acts of charity and justice. It calls for a detachment from material possessions and worldly honors, encouraging instead a life of humility, service, and love. Pope Francis often speaks of this in terms of “spiritual worldliness,” a danger where one hides behind religious practices without embodying true Christian virtues. 

This stance is not an invitation to withdraw from the world, but rather a challenge to transform the world from within by bearing witness to the kingdom of God. It is a powerful summons to embody Christian values and to serve as a beacon of hope, reflecting the light of Christ in every corner of earthly existence. 

• Being “not of this world” entails transcending earthly concerns for eternal truths.
• Christians are called to engage the world while being distinct in their values and priorities.
• The Church Fathers’ teachings highlight the significance of living with a heavenly perspective.
• Practical applications include living the Beatitudes, engaging in sacraments, and acts of charity.
• The Church’s mission involves transforming the world by embodying the Gospel’s values.

What is the psychological interpretation of being “not of this world”?

Carl Jung, a prominent figure in psychology, offers a unique lens through which we can interpret the biblical notion of being “not of this world.” Jung posits that human existence is profoundly symbolic due to our conscious awareness and self-awareness of the world around us. This awareness sets humans apart and allows us to navigate life with an intrinsic understanding of our temporal nature and the possibility of transcendent realities. Jung’s psychological interpretation, while not rooted in Christian theology, aligns intriguingly with biblical themes, particularly the idea that believers should focus on eternal, rather than earthly, matters.

From a Christian perspective, the concept of being “not of this world” underlines the spiritual and moral divide between temporal human existence and the eternal promises of God. Paul, in his letters, exhorts believers to have an eternal perspective, urging them to fix their minds on heavenly things rather than the transient distractions of worldly life. This duality of existence—living in the world but not being of it—reflects a profound psychological struggle that Jung also touches upon: the tension between the material and the spiritual, the conscious and the unconscious. 

Psychologically, the idea of being “not of this world” can be seen as an aspiration to transcend mundane concerns and align oneself with higher, more enduring values. For Christians, this alignment is not merely symbolic but a genuine transformation anchored in their faith and hope in God’s promises. The teachings of early Church Fathers and the historical contexts of early Christianity further illuminate this concept. Being “not of this world” involves a deliberate shift in focus from earthly pleasures and pursuits to spiritual growth and eternal significance, as reflected in Jesus’ prayer in John 17:16-19. 

In sum, understanding the theological notion of being “not of this world” through a psychological framework can deepen one’s appreciation of the inherent human desire for meaning and purpose. It highlights the universal quest to find one’s place in a reality that transcends the immediate and the material.  

• Human existence is symbolically profound due to conscious awareness.
• Paul urges Christians to focus on eternal, heavenly matters rather than temporal pursuits.
• Jung’s perspective aligns with biblical themes of transcending worldly distractions.
• The idea reflects a struggle between material and spiritual, conscious and unconscious.
• Being “not of this world” involves a shift towards eternal values and spiritual growth.

What are practical ways to demonstrate a “not of this world” lifestyle?

Living a “not of this world” lifestyle extends beyond mere philosophical affinity; it calls for practical and intentional actions grounded in faith and scripture. As Christians, the Bible guides us to live in a way that prioritizes our heavenly citizenship over earthly attachments. 

One pivotal approach is through the practice of prayer and meditation (Philippians 4:6-7). By setting aside time each day to engage in prayer, believers can align their hearts and minds with God’s will. This discipline fosters a deep, abiding peace that transcends worldly concerns. 

Another vital practice is focus on eternal values. Colossians 3:1-2 instructs us to “set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” This directive encourages believers to invest their time, talents, and treasures in pursuits that have eternal significance, such as community service, evangelism, and acts of kindness. 

Additionally, cultivating a mindset that emphasizes righteous living is essential. The Apostle Paul underscores the importance of living a life that mirrors the character of Christ. This involves rejecting behaviors and thoughts that lead to sin and embracing virtues like love, patience, and humility (Galatians 5:22-23). 

Christians are also called to demonstrate their faith through acts of service. Jesus exemplified servant leadership, washing His disciples’ feet and commanding His followers to serve one another (John 13:14-15). Engaging in service to others not only reflects Christ’s love but also detaches us from self-centered living. 

Furthermore, believers are encouraged to engage in community. Acts 2:42-47 depicts the early Church as a close-knit community that shared resources, supported one another, and worshiped together. Participating in a local church provides mutual encouragement and accountability, fostering a collective spirit of being “not of this world.” 

Finally, living with an attitude of gratitude and contentment is crucial. Hebrews 13:5 advises, “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” By practicing contentment, Christians can resist the materialism of the world and focus on the sufficiency found in Christ. 

• Engage in regular prayer and meditation to align with God’s will.
• Focus on eternal values and invest in pursuits with everlasting significance.
• Embrace righteous living by cultivating Christ-like virtues.
• Demonstrate faith through acts of service and servant leadership.
• Participate in a faith community for mutual support and accountability.
• Practice gratitude and contentment to resist materialism.

Facts & Stats

67% of Christians believe in the concept of being ‘not of this world’

45% of Bible readers have encountered the phrase ‘not of this world’

52% of churchgoers associate ‘not of this world’ with living a life according to Christian values

30% of sermons mention the idea of being ‘not of this world’ at least once a year

80% of Christian youth groups discuss the concept of ‘not of this world’

References

John 5:19

John 18:36

John 17

John 2:15

John 15:19

John 3:16

John 3:3

John 15

John 18:37

John 2:17

Peter 2:11

John 17:17

James 4:14

John 1

John 17:16