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This is part 3 of a 3 part talk: Part 1 | Part 2
In this continuation of part 2, Bill Smith continues the workshop on how culture affects relationships. He begins by developing how a tolerant culture impacts our relationships: 1.) We don’t take responsibility well to help others, 2.) We don’t confront well when we do speak up and 3.) We don’t receive confrontation well. When you prize tolerance over all other virtues, relationships become more shallow – tolerance is a wonderful thing when combined with other values in the Christian life.
Smith also examines the desire for authenticity in culture. Smith uses the examples of fantasy and fairy tales as demonstrations that tap into deep desires in people. Demythologization of heroes helps us to be more authentic with others. Culture provides opportunities and pressures that can draw you towards or away from others. Smith discusses the impact of culture on our relationship with the Lord. He argues that the book of Daniel offers a helpful corrective to what it looks like to live a godly life in our present culture. He discusses the importance of growth in fruit of the Spirit in your personal relationships and offers helpful questions to consider when thinking through how culture impacts us and our relationships.
Key Scriptures: Daniel 2; 2 Corinthians 5; Matthew 5:38-40; Luke 6:27-38; Romans 12:14-21
