What Does It Mean to Be “Not of This World”?
The phrase “not of this world” comes from the words of Jesus in John 18:36:
"My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place."
Jesus made it clear that His kingdom is not based on earthly power, wealth, or influence. As believers, we are called to live with a heavenly perspective, knowing that our true home is with God. This doesn’t mean we should ignore life on earth, but rather that our hearts and minds should be set on things above, as Paul writes in Colossians 3:2:
"Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things."
Being “not of this world” means we live differently from those who focus only on temporary things. We follow Christ’s teachings, trust in His promises, and seek to honor Him in all we do.
Characteristics of a “Not of This World” Life
1. A Different Set of Values
The world values success, power, and material wealth. But Jesus taught that the greatest in the kingdom of heaven are those who serve others (Matthew 23:11). A person who is not of this world focuses on love, humility, and obedience to God rather than seeking approval from society.
2. A Renewed Mindset
Romans 12:2 tells us:
"Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."
A renewed mind sees life through the lens of God’s truth rather than worldly opinions. It means making decisions based on faith, not fear, and choosing righteousness over convenience.
3. Eternal Perspective
Life on earth is temporary, but eternity with God is forever. When we live with eternity in mind, we handle struggles differently. We know that suffering is not the end, and we trust in God’s plan. 2 Corinthians 4:18 reminds us:
"So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal."
Instead of chasing temporary happiness, those who are not of this world invest in spiritual growth and helping others find Christ.
How to Live “Not of This World” in a World That Rejects It
1. Stay Rooted in God’s Word
The Bible is our guide for living differently. By reading and applying Scripture, we gain wisdom to navigate life with a heavenly mindset. Psalm 119:105 says:
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path."
2. Trust in God, Not the World
It’s easy to put our hope in money, relationships, or success. But these things can fade. Instead, we are called to trust in the Lord:
"Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." (Psalm 20:7)
3. Love Others as Jesus Did
Even though the world may reject Christ’s message, we are called to love. Jesus taught us to love our enemies, serve the needy, and forgive freely. John 13:35 says:
"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
Standing Firm When the World Pushes Back
Following Christ often means standing against the flow. The world may not understand why we choose purity, honesty, or faithfulness, but Jesus warned us this would happen:
"If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first." (John 15:18)
Rather than seeking approval from the world, we find joy in knowing we are living for something greater. As Philippians 3:20 reminds us:
"But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ."
Final Thoughts
Being not of this world doesn’t mean escaping life but living with a purpose beyond it. It means walking in faith, setting our minds on things above, and trusting in God’s promises. When we live this way, we shine the light of Christ for others to see.
