Cultural Christianity is a term that is often used for people who believe they are Christians because of their national citizenship, occasional participation in church, or general moral agreement or at least sympathy with Biblical history and ideals. The deception lies in the fact that whereas all of these activities and associations may be positive, “they a Christian do not make.” And, if they allow people to think that they do, it makes cultural Christianity a potential poison simply because of its insidiously satisfaction without real spiritual vibrancy.
So, what does one do to insure that they are not succumbing to the blight of cultural Christianity? It is not really complex. There are three sure-fire ways to shake the culture out, leaving room for Christ himself. First, mourning the lack of spiritual vitality is a good start. That requires humility and acknowledging that business as usual is simply not satisfying. I don’t know anyone who is truly delighted when their life consists of everything the same, day after day without a profound and joy-filled experience.
Second, do some spiritual exercises that wakes the soul. Pray passionately and long. Fast without eating for a few days or a week. Confess everything that has bogged the soul or crimped relationships for a long time. Immerse yourself in Scripture, committing to applying everything commanded therein.
Third, ask the Spirit to lead your actions and conversations in a way that your every step reflects obedience instead of routine. This will always mean that you will do and say things completely out of your comfort zone.
Then, watch what happens. The culture of your soul will shift.