Paul writes about the Cretans: “They profess to know God, but they deny him by their works. They are detestable, disobedient, unfit for any good work.” (Titus 1:16) The Cretan culture has such sins, that are evident in almost all cultures in the world. The contemporary world is a sad witness to the collapse of the moral order.
Denial: Most cultures claim that they are religious or spiritual. Paul writes that they profess, declare, or claim to know God. However, their deeds are immoral and do not reflect the holiness of the magnificent God. The unrighteous deeds reveal that they do not know the true and righteous god. Perhaps, they had created their own gods or given to them by traditions. Though they could perceive God’s divine attributes in the created order, they deny Him. (Romans 1:21)
Detestable: Paul writes that they are spiritually detestable. That means their thoughts, words, deeds, and relationships could not be regarded or esteemed. In reality, such behavior could be only criticized and hated. Since they exchanged the glory of God for a lie, God gave them up to dishonorable passions, and rejoice in doing what is contradictory to nature. (Romans 1:26)
Disobedient: There is no respect for authority in such cultures. Dysfunctional families because of disobedient children, lawlessness on the streets, and failure of governance in society. The laws are meant to be broken. There is no or little consequence for the violation of laws, rules, regulations, and norms. With their futile thinking, they assume they can break all bonds or norms and cast away all restraints or order. (Psalms 2:3)
Discredited: In such a society, there is no trust. People do not trust one another. Deception and cheating are the norm. Hence, they are unfit for any good work. Therefore, all relationships are strained and stressed. Service for the benefit of others is a strange thing, and selfless service is an unknown thing. No one desires to do a good thing, and those who do are ridiculed and humiliated.
As a disciple do I lead a Bible-honoring and counter-culture life?