MEMORY VERSE:‘’Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand” Philippians 4:5
BIBLE PASSAGE:1 Corinthians 6:12-13.
INTRODUCTION
To socialise simply means ‘to talk to and do things with other people in a friendly way’. There are various ways of socializing, ranging from relating with people in the immediate environment, to getting involved in governance and community development activities. Christian socialisation cuts across recreation, social interaction, cultural activities, and political issues. While there may be diverse opinions on the extent of the involvement of christians in social issues, it should be noted that everything should be done in moderation.
OUTLINE
1.SOCIALISATION IN PRACTICE
2.WORDLY PERSPECTIVES VERSUS BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES
1.SOCIALISATION IN PRACTICE
Jesus Christ and His disciples attended a wedding ceremony at Cana of Galilee John 2:1-2. He dined with Zacchaeus in his house Luke 19:5. He was a friend to the family of Lazarus, Mary and Martha Luke 10:38-42 and paid them condolence visit John 11:33-35. He and His disciples also participated in the Feast of Passover Mark 14:12-14; Exodus 12:24-27. Apostle Paul interacted with diverse classes of people for the sake of the Gospel to win some 1 Corinthians 9:19-23. Daniel was involved in the political administration of land in his days this assignment made him interact with various people Daniel 1:18-21; 6:1-3.
2.WORDLY PERSPECTIVES VERSUS BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVES
Christians cannot live in isolation in this present world. However , we must know when and how to draw the line between worldly(sinful) and acceptable Godly socialisations.
For instance, Christians are expected to socialise and mingle 1 Timothy 4:8 but visiting pubs and nightclubs for recreation will not portray you as a serious christian. Christians should avoid Participating or eating at events where idols are celebrated 1 Corinthians 10:28. Modernised carnivals with satanic undertones and other places where christian beliefs and lifestyle is not taken seriously should also be avoided 1 Corinthians 8:10-11; 10:19-21. Watching of immoral movies, listening to/singing of ungodly music and wearing seductive apparels in the name of socialisation are also ungodly things Christians must avoid Philippians 4:5; 1 Corinthians 8:8-11. While getting involved in secular activities, Christians should watch out and abstain from things that can make them compromise their beliefs Philippians 4:8.
CONCLUSION
Whatsoever we do to socialise should be to the glory of God and edification of the saints 1 Corinthians 10:31. Christians are to show moderation in all social interactions.