Culture is perhaps the most valued aspect of human society. However, its greatest limitation lies in its tendency towards introversion. This inward focus gives rise to many of humanity’s challenges. An extreme inclination towards introversion may result in societal deterioration. Moving towards extroversion entails broadening one’s interests to encompass various areas and regions, potentially achieving permanence. Despite scepticism, evidence suggests that civilizations which embrace extroversion flourish, whereas those that do not, remain underdeveloped or become endangered.
The primary social benefits that draw people to immerse themselves in cultural embodiment are the sense of identity and belonging it provides. This fosters unity and social cohesion by nurturing shared values and a common ethical foundation. Conditions such as family and kinship bonds contribute to a sense of belonging and affection. However, when culture drives people, it can preclude genuine love and make it difficult to embrace outsiders. Such cultural disparities have often been at the heart of perpetual conflicts in various regions of the world. The complex considerations of culture might overshadow the advantages that emerge from overlooking cultural elements.
Take, for instance, the opposition to positive change or modernization. In some African areas, indigenous populations frequently resisted the education brought by white colonizers. Those populations focused more on the negative impacts of colonialism instead of embracing the educational opportunities offered. This resistance is deeply embedded in the historical cultural values of African societies, and many still uphold these views even in contemporary times.
The Bible provides an example of the detrimental effects of resisting change through the narrative of the Jewish community. Jesus introduced revolutionary knowledge that had the potential to create the most advanced civilization ever known. Yet, this knowledge was too progressive for a society deeply rooted in cultural traditions. They perceived Jesus as a threat instead of an agent of transformation and the sole hope for humanity.
Their opposition reached the extent of conspiring to kill Him, despite His teachings of love and peace, which had been their ultimate aspirations. Culture was the main hindrance to their capacity to reason. Social hierarchies are frequently perceived as a cultural drawback, causing numerous individuals to feel discouraged. The inherent inequalities within a culture may suppress innovation, as those considered as juniors, exhibiting superior ideas, might be viewed as threats to group unity.
Conversely, a society that cherishes freedom fosters diversity, which is deemed essential for the creation of innovative ideas that propel progress. The cultural misconception that knowledge belongs only to the older generation significantly hinders the acceptance of innovative concepts. The presence of free thinkers characterizes progressive nations.
Innovations by individuals deemed of lower social standing are often aggressively dismissed. Numerous individuals perish with their grand ideas, stifled by an oppressive environment due to cultural norms. Discrimination may be prevalent where tribal identities are deeply ingrained. Such cultures are frequently nurtured by pride, which remains unrecognized by those it affects. Often, the rejection of those with innovative ideas is ostensibly due to scepticism, but at its core lies pride. For instance, a husband might oppose his wife’s advancement, viewing it as a breach of cultural norms. In these scenarios, cultural dictates, rather than rational thought, tend to dominate. A further cultural side-effect is the negation of individuality.
True freedom is attainable when an individual is permitted to be authentic. A person might be feminine and possess grand ideas to improve the nation. Yet, cultural norms might nullify her personal choices based on her gender. These constraints, upheld by cultural values, can be countless. An exhaustive examination of these reveals solely adverse consequences, with no positive aspects to value in cultural norms.
Consider the language barriers as well, since culture is often perpetuated through language. Language can restrict individuals from exchanging ideas with the wider world. Communication is a crucial element in human development and survival. Yet, culture often emphasizes preserving language, when considered more important than engaging with outsiders. The prevalent ignorance and regressive tendencies linked to culture can render those involved oblivious.
Cultural traditions occasionally lead to a society’s isolation, detaching it from global progress. Embracing new ideas is crucial for tangible progress, and a global engagement facilitates this, as isolation can hinder survival. The worst cultural practices are those that involve death, which can be considered quite imprudent. The reverence for the deceased often surpasses the respect for the living. An individual may be inconspicuous in life but receive considerable honour in death, indicating that, in some cultures, death is perceived as more important than life.
The difficulties many nations face are frequently rooted in cultural differences. These disparities can ignite conflicts and intensify societal tensions. Although rigid observance of cultural traditions may seem to foster peace, such peace is usually short-lived. A forward-thinking strategy includes questioning cultural norms and embracing logically sustainable practices. The simplest way to evaluate the suitability of behaviour is by considering the greatest good for the greatest number. Rationality, rather than cultural dictates, should guide appropriate actions when necessary.
Christ’s perspective on cultural issues is reflected in his teachings that highlight love, compassion, and justice. He frequently confronted cultural norms that were discriminatory or unfair, championing the cause of the marginalized and endorsing virtues such as humility and service. His ministry transcended cultural boundaries, demonstrating respect for diverse human experiences while promoting ethical behaviour and valuing spiritual over materialistic pursuits. A deeper understanding can be achieved by examining specific parables and Jesus’ engagements with different cultural communities.
Jesus’ teachings often confronted established cultural norms, yet it is interesting to note that denominational churches frequently maintain these very norms. Each denomination adheres to practices that resonate with their chosen cultural perspectives. While Jesus advocated for unity and coherence, denominational church organizations tend to foster division through their leadership styles, with traditional leadership structures being the most significant cultural norm.
If leadership in Churches could be eliminated, allowing the teachings of Jesus to prevail, there would be a single Church. Every Christian would follow their faith following Jesus’ teachings. Criticism would only be offered through the method of justice administration recommended by Jesus. The tradition that implies certain individuals deserve more respect than others is against Christianity. The secular practice of ranking people as juniors and seniors is a tradition that, if removed, would eliminate all incorrect teachings in Christianity.
But you, do not be called ‘Rabbi’; for One is your Teacher, the Christ, and you are all brethren. Do not call anyone on earth your father; for One is your Father, He who is in heaven. And do not be called teachers; for One is your Teacher, the Christ. But he who is greatest among you shall be your servant. And whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted. But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for you neither go in yourselves nor do you allow those who are entering to go in” (Matthew 23:8-13 NKJV).
The instruction mentioned above removes any form of cultural traditions and dominance over others. From some cultural viewpoints, it is argued that the teachings of Jesus are impractical. However, what appears truly impractical is the integration of leadership structures into Christianity. The teachings of Jesus are as practical as the Bible depicts them. The cited Scriptural reference streamlines Christianity, potentially removing the chance of misleading others. Everyone would be guided by, and in turn guide others from a single source: Jesus Christ. Consequently, this would eradicate all forms of disputes within Christianity.
The final part of the aforementioned Scripture highlights the sole intent of integrating cultural traditions into Christianity. It states: “But woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you shut the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to” (Matthew 23:13 NKJV). Regrettably, those who enjoy being guided by others are unwittingly satisfied with these conventional Christian practices. They feel uneasy, without having someone dictate their proper conduct in Christianity.
There exists a supernatural entity adept at distorting Jesus’ teachings. This is often achieved by assigning leaders and endowing them with enough grandeur to gain admiration from unsuspecting Christians. This entity twists the Scriptures to elevate leaders instead of Jesus. Typically, only an external observer can detect such misapplication of Scriptures. Insiders tend to feel justified in following these leaders without scrutinizing their behaviour. Any form of inquiry is quickly labelled as dissent, which suggests a prime example of cultural norms at work.
Modest Christians resent being labelled as rebellious, yet by conforming to the dictates of treacherous Church leaders, they would be rebelling against God. They might confuse the comfort that comes with the approval of these Church leaders for God’s endorsement. But that is exactly what deception is all about. The key is to recognize that Satan’s servants do not manifestly present themselves as evil. Deceivers resemble the angels of light, all the while leading many astray. Only a discerning few can detect such deceit.
“But I fear, lest somehow, as the serpent deceived Eve by his craftiness, so your minds may be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ. For if he who comes preaches another Jesus whom we have not preached, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different gospel which you have not accepted—you may well put up with it!” (2 Corinthians 11:3-4 NKJV).
The machinations of Satan were as transparent then as they are now, to those who hold Christ dearer than traditional cultural leaders. Paul was profoundly troubled by the Corinthians who seemed to tolerate such individuals. Cultural traditions may offer comforting solace to the physical body. The ornament associated with deceit may tempt, but as Paul cautioned, they are too costly to endure. One can identify as a Christian, similar to being a member of a social club, for purposes of comfort and security, in being part of a group that grants protection to mortal beings but pursuing Christ’s rejection.
Paul was reiterating the teachings of Jesus, as documented in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. While it was initially addressed to His disciples, the sermon has been preserved for our benefit today. Only those consumed by a longing for ease would feign ignorance of Jesus’ true words. He never suggested that following Christianity would be without a challenge. Understanding that nothing can substitute for a devout commitment to Jesus requires a dedicated individual.
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it. Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit” (Matthew 7:13-17 NKJV).
In this presentation, we have endeavoured to show that cultural traditions are the primary means by which Satan deceives many. Remove cultural traditions; evaluating information becomes straightforward. Individuals may hastily consider themselves mistaken when they challenge erroneous doctrines, espoused by those in positions of authority. It is naturally pleasing to be seen as compliant by a leader. Nevertheless, it is essential to determine whether such authoritarian teachings follow the supreme authority of Jesus.
Offering critique to church leadership does not necessarily signify antagonism. It involves engaging with leadership structures empathetically and following the guidelines outlined in Matthew 18:14ff. Prayer may be essential before taking this step. Cultural norms often dissuade such actions, especially when initiated by those considered lower in the hierarchy. Yet, in Christianity, there is no distinction between senior and junior (Galatians 3:26-29). Confusion must be addressed not with aggression, but with love. It’s important to remember that we are all considered sinners in the eyes of God.
“No one has seen God at any time. If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us. By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us His Spirit. And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son as Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. And we have known and believed the love that God has for us. God is love, and he who abides in love abides in God, and God in him. Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the Day of Judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:12-19 NKJV).
Paul advised that Christians should not conform to worldly patterns, but be transformed by renewing their minds (Romans 12:1-2). Addressing the issue of customary traditions is essential for Paul’s teachings to be applicable. The reality is that culture often poses a challenge to Christianity. If cultural constraints were absent, following the teachings of Jesus would not be seen as challenging. The Jews rejected Jesus, primarily because He challenged their cultural traditions. Thus, culture can be a significant obstacle in Christianity.
Andrew Masuku is the author of Dimensions of a New Civilization, laying down standards for uplifting Zimbabwe from the current state of economic depression into a model for other nations worldwide. A decaying tree provides an opportunity for a blossoming sprout. Written from a Christian perspective, the book is a product of inspiration, bringing relief to those having witnessed the strings of unworkable solutions––leading to the current economic and social decay. Most Zimbabweans should find the book as a long-awaited providential oasis of hope, in a simple conversational tone.
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