An Example of Counter-Cultural Living

Thaine Norris

10-11-2020

Counter-cultural living is Kingdom of God living. The ways of the Kingdom of God are most often OPPOSITE the ways of the world.

JESUS WAS THE OPPOSITE OF WHAT MOST PEOPLE EXPECTED.

See Isaiah 9:2-7, then…

List two ways that Jesus was opposite to messianic expectations.

1: ___________________________________________

2: ___________________________________________

List two teachings of Jesus that are opposite to worldly thinking.

1: ___________________________________________

2: ___________________________________________

CONSIDER THE STORY OF ENRICO DIPAZZIO AND HIS LUMBER.

Matthew 5:40 “And if anyone would sue you and take your tunic, let him have your _______________ as well.”

Enrico Dipazzio was a “wise steward,” investing everything into the Kingdom of God.

Matthew 25:14-30, especially vs 16-17: He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. So also he who had the two talents made two talents more.

Question: What is the purpose of the resources God has entrusted to you?

CONSIDER THE STORY OF ENRICO DIPAZZIO IN THE CONCENTRATION CAMP.

Romans 12:14 Bless those who persecute you. Bless and do not curse.

Romans 12:17-21 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Carefully consider what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.”

20On the contrary,

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;

if he is thirsty, give him a drink.

For in so doing,

you will heap burning coals on his head.”

21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

This is what it looks like to live counter-culturally, as citizens of the Kingdom of Heaven.