Key Verse: "Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him."
- 1 John 2:15 KJV
When we look around us, it is easy to be captivated by the glitter and noise of this present world. Its pleasures call to us, its systems try to mold us, and its values often run contrary to the will of God. But as believers in Christ, we are reminded again and again that this world is not our home, we are pilgrims, strangers, and sojourners here, called to set our affection on things above.
Do Not Love the World
The Apostle John gives us a sobering command:
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.”
—1 John 2:15–17 (KJV)
The world offers temporary satisfaction, but its promises are fleeting. Everything it treasures will one day fade, yet the one who does God’s will is anchored in eternity.
Do Not Be Conformed
Paul echoes this truth in Romans:
“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
—Romans 12:2 (KJV)
The world constantly pressures us to think, speak, and live by its standards. But God calls us to a higher pattern, a transformation through His Word, so that our lives bear witness to His holiness.
Our True Citizenship
We are reminded that our real identity lies not in this present age, but in Christ:
“For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ.”
—Philippians 3:20 (KJV)
As children of God, our citizenship is in heaven. This gives us a new perspective: we live in this world, but we do not belong to it. Our eyes are fixed on the eternal, and our hope is in Christ’s return.
Walking in Victory
Though we are in the world, we are not left helpless against its pull. Jesus declared:
“In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”
—John 16:33b (KJV)
Through Him, we too walk in victory.
Conclusion
The world, as it is currently structured, is not aligned with God’s eternal purposes. Scripture warns believers not to love the world or the things in it, for such love is incompatible with the love of the Father. This world is characterized by fleeting desires—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—all of which originate from the world and not from God.
This world, with all its allure and distractions, calls believers to remember that our true citizenship is in heaven, not in earthly things. The Bible warns us not to love the world or be conformed to its patterns, for these are temporary and lead us away from God.
Let us therefore reject the spirit of this world and embrace the renewing power of God’s Word, allowing it to shape our thoughts and actions. As we do, we will not only avoid the destructive consequences of worldly conformity, but will also become living testimonies of God’s transforming grace.
