As believers in Jesus Christ, we understand that sin is a universal problem, as it is written in Romans 3:23, "for all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God." However, cultures can indeed have blind spots or accepted practices that may not align with biblical principles. This can be considered corporate or cultural sin.
Cultural sins can manifest in various ways, such as accepted corrupt practices, high divorce or adultery rates, or indifference towards certain moral issues. These issues may be influenced by historical practices, societal pressures, or even laws that do not align with God's word.
Jesus himself addressed cultural sins when he spoke to the religious leaders of his time, as recorded in Matthew 23. He said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like hidden graves and the men who walk over them do not know it" (WEB).
The reason behind cultural sins can be multifaceted:
1. **Historical Acceptance**: Some sins may be accepted due to historical practices or cultural norms.
2. **Lack of Teaching**: A lack of biblical teaching can lead to a warped understanding of right and wrong.
3. **Rebellion**: Outright rebellion against God's word can also lead to cultural sins.
Let us pray for discernment and a deeper understanding of cultural sins.
Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, we come before you, acknowledging our own shortcomings and the corporate sins of our cultures. Open our eyes to see the plank in our own eyes so that we can have the moral clarity to address these issues with love and truth.
Help us to be lights in our communities, standing firm on your word and guiding others towards your truth. We ask this in the mighty name of Jesus Christ, who came to save us from our sins and offer us eternal life. Remember, it is only by the name of Jesus that we have access to God. Also, there is no other name by which we can be saved. We pray that the world will come to know this truth.
In all things, guide us by your Holy Spirit to be instruments of your peace and righteousness. Amen.
Lastly, let us remember the words of Isaiah 1:18, "Come now, and let us reason together,' says Yahweh: 'Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow. Though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.'" It is only by the saving grace of Jesus Christ that we can overcome sin, both individually and culturally.