Articles
Rebellion
A personal trait that is celebrated in our society is rebellion. I’m not referring to political anarchy or violent overthrow but rather to an individualistic spirit that rejects social convention, shrugs off expectation and does whatever one pleases regardless of the impact on others. Certain celebrities are known for this trait, and there is no end of admiration for their “I couldn’t care less what you think” bravado.
On a practical level, I would like to ask: Does this outlook really lead to happiness? People I have seen or known with such attitudes are usually abrasive, unfriendly and undependable. After all, by their own admission they’re only interested in themselves and doing what makes them “happy.” Is this what engenders true respect, friendship and bonds of affection?
On a spiritual level, I would like to ask: Does this outlook really lead to God’s approval? I would suggest that a rebellious, do-your-own-thing mentality is actually anti-spiritual. First, Jesus places love for neighbor on an equal plane of importance with love for God (Mt 22:34-40). This means putting the concerns of others above those of self (Ph 2:3-4). Second, submission to one another is expected of Christians (Eph 5:21), and it arises from humility, not swagger (1 Pet 5:5).
The person who has a solid grasp on his identity and a clear, confident sense of purpose is strong enough to submit and serve. It is the insecure who are misguidedly searching for their significance who adopt the “don’t tread on me” persona. Those who truly understand themselves don’t have to keep trumpeting who they are to the world, especially by crude, brash and/or indifferent behavior.
Two counter-points: 1) This does not mean that Christians mindlessly jump through everyone’s hoops. But they do not act to shock, sensationalize or otherwise say, “Hey! Look at me!” Some do this by fashion statements (hairdos, tattoos, body-piercing, clothing); others do it by demeanor (a surly, tell-it-like-it-is brashness). 2) Christians must maintain a strong mindset when pressured by the world to conform to its standards. If we are going to rebel, let’s rebel against evil and shock the world with our composure, gentleness and rejection of all values which encourage vanity, crudeness, immorality and self-destructive behavior.
