Debate: Should Christians Participate in Other Cultures’ Ceremonies?

Jonah: I believe Christians should avoid participating in other cultures’ ceremonies, especially if those ceremonies have ties to religious practices or ideologies contrary to Scripture. As it says in 2 Corinthians 6:14-15, “Do not be yoked together with unbelievers… What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?” Engaging in such practices may lead to compromising our faith and aligning ourselves with values that contradict God’s commands.

Carl: I believe Christians can engage in other cultures’ ceremonies as a way to build relationships and foster understanding. The Apostle Paul provides a model in 1 Corinthians 9:22, where he says, “I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some.” Participation doesn’t necessarily mean endorsement; it can be an opportunity to share Christ’s love through our actions.

Jonah: But participating in ceremonies with spiritual elements could lead to syncretism—blending Christian beliefs with unbiblical practices. In Exodus 20:3-5, God is clear about not worshiping other gods or creating idols. By being involved, even passively, aren’t we at risk of appearing to condone or partake in idolatry? The Old Testament is filled with warnings against Israel mingling with pagan practices, and the same principles should apply to us today.

Carl: I understand the concern about idolatry, but not all cultural ceremonies are inherently spiritual or idolatrous. We need discernment. For instance, when Paul visited Athens in Acts 17, he engaged with their cultural and religious practices to introduce them to the “unknown God.” He didn’t shy away from their culture but used it as a bridge for the Gospel. Couldn’t participating respectfully in cultural ceremonies be a similar opportunity?

Jonah: Paul’s approach in Athens was about correcting their false beliefs, not participating in their worship. Also, in Deuteronomy 12:30-31, God warns Israel not to adopt the practices of the nations they were displacing, saying, “Be careful not to be ensnared by inquiring about their gods, saying, ‘How do these nations serve their gods? We will do the same.’” Isn’t it safer for Christians to remain set apart as a holy people, as described in 1 Peter 2:9?

Carl: Being “set apart” doesn’t mean isolating ourselves completely. Jesus Himself participated in cultural moments of His time, such as weddings (John 2:1-11). He was accused of eating with sinners and tax collectors because He valued relationship over rigid separation (Matthew 9:10-13). Could it be that our witness is strengthened, not weakened, when we engage with others in their context while remaining true to our faith?

Jonah: Jesus participating in a wedding isn’t the same as engaging in potentially idolatrous or spiritually conflicting ceremonies. His actions always pointed people to God. We are called to be in the world but not of it (John 17:14-16). If our participation could cause confusion or lead others to stumble in their faith (Romans 14:13), isn’t it better to abstain?

Carl: I agree that our actions should never cause others to stumble. However, avoiding participation altogether might send a message of judgment or rejection, which could hinder the Gospel. If we approach these ceremonies with prayer, discernment, and a heart for Christ, couldn’t we balance cultural engagement and faithful witness? After all, Jesus’ ministry was about crossing boundaries to bring people into God’s kingdom.

Jonah: I remain cautious. As Christians, we are ambassadors for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:20), and our testimony must be clear and uncompromised. While engagement is important, it should never come at the expense of our allegiance to God.

Carl: I agree that allegiance to God comes first. Yet, I believe it’s possible to engage with cultural ceremonies in a way that honours God and builds bridges. We must rely on the Holy Spirit for wisdom in each situation.

Our faith calls us to continuously seek wisdom and understanding. It’s vital for us, as Christians, to engage in these dialogues, always aiming to reflect God’s love and wisdom in our lives and the lives of those around us.