Life Lessons Non-Christians Can Learn from the Church

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Jesus was a revolutionary figure who challenged traditions, religion and beliefs. His mission inspired the world. Christians learn through Jesus’ example how to live better lives and use their God-given talents, gifts and abilities to build the church. The church is God’s instrument for changing the world. Whether you identify as Christian or not, the church provides a great model of how you can live your life to better the world, or simply the lives of those around you. Many Christians who made the greatest impact on this world, for good or bad, are those who had the deepest convictions. They weren’t necessarily the smartest people, the brightest people, the most educated, the wealthiest or even the most famous, but their convictions alone allowed them to make a difference. Whether you’re a believer or not, there’s a lot of wisdom you can gain from the church. Here are six life lessons non-Christians can learn from the church.

Go Against the Grain

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Going against the grain means to go against one’s natural inclination or tendency. A person who does things in an unconventional manner, the opposite of what is usually done, especially if their methods are not generally approved of is said to go against the grain. Christian martyrs went against the grain. They were willing to pay the excessive price to stand up for what they believed in, even if that meant dying. At baptism, Christians are raised to a new life in Jesus Christ, striving for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being. Sometimes, standing up for what is right, good and just requires one to go against the grain. This is a lesson that even non-Christians can apply to their own lives.

Serve Others

A life lesson non-Christians can learn from the church is that there is great power in serving others. Jesus said, “The greatest among you must be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted” (Matthew 23:11-12). Think about some of the great people who lived like Martin Luther King, Jr., and Mother Teresa. These people lived their lives in service to others and what they believed in. Serving allows us to discover and develop our spiritual gifts. 1 Corinthians 12 compares the church to the human body. Just like our bodies are made of many parts serving specific functions, the church is made up of people with different skills and abilities. Alone these pieces aren’t very useful, but together we create something beautiful. If you want to be great, serve.

Whatever You Spend Your Money On, You Value

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Jesus said, “For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be” (Matthew 6:21). The church is often recognized for their giving, spending money on charity and in places where they can help make a difference. Where you spend your money is a huge indicator of what you value. For example, when you spend money on education, you think about your growth and your personal development. When you spend your money with your loved ones, you think more about them and spending time with them. It’s important that you are careful where you spend your money. Money had value for a reason and you should spend it on the things you value.

Take the Leap of Faith

The Bible reminds us, “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it” (Matthew 13:44-46). One lesson non-Christians can learn from the Church is when you finally find your life’s purpose, your mission, or your dream, take a chance and take a leap of faith. In a society where we tend to look to outsiders for advice, we tend to ignore our inner-voice. Many Christians consider to this to be the voice of God speaking to them. When you have a gut instinct about something, trust it and follow it. You will discover great joy and fulfillment when you finally discover what “it” is for you. Don’t be afraid to jump into your purpose.

Prove Your Worth Through Your Works

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Being a Christian is about more than just your words. It’s about your works. Prove your worth through your works. Jesus said, “Just so, every good tree bears good fruit, and a rotten tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot beat bad fruit, nor can a rotten tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire. So by their fruits you will know them” (Matthew 7:17-20). Instead of just saying that you are more, you can actually live a life that reflects that you are more. Take action and deliver results that will build up the common good. Don’t just say good things. Do good things. Don’t just declare your dreams. Take action and make them a reality.