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COMMUNITY, CULTURE AND CONTEXT

The list of differences between 1st century Eastern culture and 21st century Eastern culture is long. That list is even longer when we begin to compare Eastern and Western cultures. Eastern cultures tend to be more collectivist, while Western cultures tend to be more individualistic. If we are not careful, this difference will cloud how we understand Scripture.

Everyone has certain biases and perspectives that they bring to the table when he or she is engaging in Bible study. Our horizon is one way in which our ingrained biases may surface. Christian historian and apologist, Michael Licona writes, “A historian’s horizon is how they perceive the evidence they’re examining based upon their prior knowledge, experience, education and other things that form and undergird their worldview.” Depending upon how and where you were raised, certain aspects of Scripture may ring true and you may unknowingly overlook other aspects.

If you grow up in an individualistic culture, you may overlook the numerous references to community. However, Paul’s audience, which was of a collectivist culture, would immediately recognize these emphases. For example, when someone is feeling down or forgotten, some Christians may say to such a person, “don’t be weary in well doing, for in due season you will reap…” (Gal. 6:9). However, that is not what the text actually says. Paul wrote, “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” In 2 verses Paul said, “us” twice and “we” three times. Paul was not providing us an individual pick me up, but motivation for a communal victory.

One other very important way to overcome bias or preconceived assumptions is to study within the confines of community. Doing a daily devotional or personal Bible study is always good, but it should not be the only way in which you engage the text. Scripture was never meant to be studied in isolation. The early church “continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship…had all things in common, and continued daily ‘breaking bread from house to house” (Acts 2:42-46). Though it may be difficult to live like this daily, it should become a part of our Christian lifestyle.