The pressure to conform to cultural norms is part of life. Even within faith circles, there are those who position themselves as the guardians of all things “acceptable”. Jesus spoke of such people, and one of His statements about them was this:

“Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.” –Luke 12:1b NKJV

In the Jewish world of the first century, the Pharisees were social bullies and dominated the public discourse. Their words, doctrines, and attitudes were the norm; and speaking their “language” was the only way to get their affirmation and acceptance.

As followers of Jesus, we must be careful to base our words, doctrines and attitudes on Him (and His Word). The wind of peer pressure is always blowing. Sometimes it’s a gentle breeze among friends and family, but other times it’s an aggressive squall. In today’s world, “tolerance” has become the supreme virtue by which all others are measured. Debate is no longer about absolute truth, but about who’s “truth” it is. So, as the social climate changes and the wind picks up; what will your convictions, words, and actions be based on?