CWW Week 28 – Day 2 – Spiritual Rigidity
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Title: When in Rome, Do as the Romans Do – With Discernment and Grace
Scripture: 1 Corinthians 9:22 – “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.”
We’ve all heard the phrase, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.” Originally meant to advise travellers to respect local customs, it’s come to mean adapting to your surroundings. But as followers of Christ, how do we apply this wisdom in a way that aligns with Scripture? How do we remain true to our faith while engaging the culture around us?
The Apostle Paul gives us the clearest biblical insight into this in 1 Corinthians 9. Paul didn’t compromise the gospel, but he did adjust his behaviour to connect with people where they were. Paul knew how to read the room.“To the Jews I became like a Jew, to win the Jews… To those not having the law I became like one not having the law… I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” This wasn’t a strategy of conformity—it was a method of mission.
Adapting Without Compromising
As Christians, we’re called to be in the world, but not of it (John 17:14-16). This tension is delicate. The goal is not to blend in so much that we lose our distinctiveness. Rather, we’re to be adaptable like Paul—culturally aware, relationally sensitive, and spiritually grounded.
This might mean engaging in conversations at work without pushing a sermon into every sentence, but still allowing your integrity, patience, and love to speak volumes. It might look like participating in community events, listening to others’ stories, and learning from them—even when their values differ from yours.
Jesus, the Ultimate Adapter
Jesus Himself modelled this. He dined with tax collectors and sinners, spoke with Samaritans, touched lepers, and welcomed children. He didn’t adopt their sins, but He met people on their turf, in their context. His mission wasn’t cultural withdrawal—it was incarnation. He became like us, so we could become like Him.
Think of the woman at the well (John 4). Jesus broke every cultural norm: talking to a woman alone, a Samaritan, and a known sinner. He met her in her space, on her terms, and introduced her to living water. That’s what it means to “do as the Romans do” without losing your heavenly citizenship.
Wisdom and Discernment
Of course, this requires discernment. Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” That means we don’t blindly follow cultural trends or societal norms. Not every custom is worth adopting. But we also don’t reject the world out of fear or self-righteousness. Instead, we listen to the Holy Spirit, apply biblical wisdom, and walk with Jesus as our guide.
For example, in mission work, cultural adaptation is critical. A missionary in Asia might wear local attire or observe local customs—not to deceive or compromise, but to build bridges. Paul’s principle still applies: the gospel is for everyone, and sometimes we need to adjust our approach to make that message accessible.
A Witness Through Relevance
When you’re in a new environment—whether it’s a new job, new school, or even a new season of life—ask yourself: How can I honour Christ here? How can I reflect His love and truth in a way that people will understand and receive?
Being culturally relevant doesn’t mean diluting the gospel. It means making it accessible. Jesus used agricultural metaphors with farmers and fishing analogies with fishermen. Paul quoted Greek poets when speaking to philosophers. God’s truth is eternal, but our methods can be flexible.
Questions:
- Where in your life are you being called to adapt without compromising your faith?
- Are there environments where you’ve withdrawn because you felt too different? What would it look like to engage with love and wisdom?
- How can you follow Paul’s example of becoming “all things to all people” for the sake of the gospel?
Prayer
Dear Lord, Papa God, help me to walk wisely in the world. Give me discernment to know when to adapt and when to stand firm. Make me a vessel of Your love and truth, whether I’m in a familiar place or foreign territory. Let my life reflect the grace of Jesus in every culture and context. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Graham Hood
