How should Christians act in a "worldly" setting?

[brunt9876]

I just finished school and have been wondering this for a while. I'm a Christian but a lot of my classmates aren't. Sometimes after a day, my classmates will go to a bar to get drinks and stuff. I went a time or two. It was a good way to connect. But I noticed after a while, people under the influence have a tendency to pressure the person not under the influence. Sometimes the pressure comes in the form of trying to persuade you to drink. Other times it's a little more insulting in that they start making fun of you or picking on you, the way a bully does in elementary school.

I've heard of Christians being successful in this kind of environment but I was wondering what exactly they do, if anyone out there has any tips. I can handle being made fun of or getting picked on, but after a while, it defeats the purpose of why I'm there if the focus is all on making fun of me.

I'm also pretty sure a lot of that has to do with me, because once the alcohol in other people starts talking, I kind of sit there and quiet down. I think I have a look of disapproval on my face usually. I'd just like some ideas in how I can continue to stay connected with them, if at all possible.

 

[Fable]

Well personally, I would say if just want to go out and establish some acquaintances or friendships, and you are not particularly a drinker, I think I would look for activities that you are more comfortable with.

If you are going to the bar to share your faith with them, there are probably better ways. Alcohol doesn't mix well with religion (or politics). People tend to be more defensive or argumentative when imbibing.

The "wordly" setting is everywhere. No need to act differently. Just be who you are and let your relationship with Christ be its own witness no matter what surroundings you are in.

 

[YoungJoonKim]

Ah..I agreed.
I do not have clear point of view of your friends.
If they, indeed, pick on you and insult you for whom you are, I cannot and will not consider them as my friend. I would radically just cut of connection with them. Good cannot mix with bad after all..
On the other hand, if you persist that they are good friends generally and so on so forth, I would encourage you to help them understand you better or else they will misjudge you because they don't know you. Its normal and simple human element.
If drunk, well, lol.. I don;t know
since I'm underage

God Bless!
Consult with God in your prayer before going elsewhere~

 

[mayfly]

If they respect you and value your friendship, they will treat you with respect. If not, back away from them. If they ask why tell them they offended you by hassling you. If they change cool. If not, then you won't be in an awkward situation that keeps you from witnessing.

Why not invite one on one to do something with you after work? Someone may appreciate it. When they have the option of saying no to you, they still know you are friendly, and they like that. Here is the gold: There will always be some who are ready to discuss more. They will be able to on your terms without the interruptions of a bar.

 

[7Daniel]

We should act as Jesus Christ did.

The best part about Christianity (well, there are A LOT) is that we have an example of who to follow to live our this life for Christ. Jesus Christ led the perfect example for us to follow.

I do not know where you are in your walk, but in all honesty those people do not sound like your friends. 1 Cor 6:19, it seems like they're destroying their temples. A friend is someone who will hold me accountable for my actions and will help me grow in the Lord (long defiition said short). I hope that the spirit will show you your path.

 

[hopeinGod]

Hi brother. I am a professional musician who has played in various settings, oftentimes where there is alcohol present, so I am very familiar with the surroundings you describe and the nature of drinking.

People become different when under the influence; they turn into something unrecognizable.

I think it would be okay to hang out with your school chums until they start showing signs of intoxication or get rude. In your walking out, you might include the words, "May the Lord be with you," or a similar phrase. It will plant a seed.

One night, unexpectedly, my silent Christian witness to one of the guitarists I once worked with caused him to react strongly against me after he had several drinks. He detesed my personality, which he said was too tender, too gentle.

I didn't get angry at him -- although I thought I had every right to -- but instead chose to gather my gear, load my car, and go home prior to the end of the gig.

Taking precautions in a godly fashion can be a strong witness.

Dave

 

[paul123]

I just finished school and have been wondering this for a while. I'm a Christian but a lot of my classmates aren't. Sometimes after a day, my classmates will go to a bar to get drinks and stuff. I went a time or two. It was a good way to connect. But I noticed after a while, people under the influence have a tendency to pressure the person not under the influence. Sometimes the pressure comes in the form of trying to persuade you to drink. Other times it's a little more insulting in that they start making fun of you or picking on you, the way a bully does in elementary school.

I've heard of Christians being successful in this kind of environment but I was wondering what exactly they do, if anyone out there has any tips. I can handle being made fun of or getting picked on, but after a while, it defeats the purpose of why I'm there if the focus is all on making fun of me.

I'm also pretty sure a lot of that has to do with me, because once the alcohol in other people starts talking, I kind of sit there and quiet down. I think I have a look of disapproval on my face usually. I'd just like some ideas in how I can continue to stay connected with them, if at all possible.

I would say that it is fine to go to the bars with them. From my experience, I have a big plank in my eye. I can't tell you what you should do. But a few drinks with them to get to know them is ok. Don't go crazy if you think it will hinder your witnessing. Myself personally am having to stop drinking all together. But if you can handle yourself, do it.