Is it OK to view Jesus as a cultural icon?
From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I hang around a pretty cool group of guys in the music industry who rap about Jesus being cool and doing awesome things for people. It has helped people to accept Jesus as a more relevant figure, showing tolerance for different lifestyles, demonstrating unconditional love rather than judgment (which is a huge topic in the Bible and pretty upsetting). Is it OK to view Jesus as a cultural icon? – C.I.
A: The central message of the Bible is Jesus Christ. His words teach that popularity with the world means death. Satan’s most effective tool is conformity and compromise. Christ calls people who are made of martyr stuff, daring to take a strong and bold stand for Him. The devil has successfully fooled many people, convincing them to follow the world. Biblical standards have been compromised by convenient social theories. The world’s standard is against God’s Word.
Satan weaves a bit of God’s truth into the dirty rags of sin. He is the commander in deceit; the ringleader in rebellion against the faithful – the great pretender. He is the spoiler of everything good, and he wants to destroy you. Many people profess faith in Jesus; they are willing to have Jesus as part of their lives – as long as it doesn’t cost them anything.
Beware of the temptation to compromise, to make the Gospel more appealing and attractive. Too many programs have been geared to please, entertain, and gain the favor of the world. The Bible says, “Blessed are those who keep His testimonies, who seek Him with the whole heart … [and] walk in His ways” (Psalm 119:2–3, NKJV).
Culture changes, but Jesus never changes. He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Read the great “I Am” Scriptures and ask the Lord to show you His humbleness to save lost souls. “I am He” (John 18:8, NKJV). “I am … who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty” (Revelation 1:8, NKJV).
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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)
©2026 Billy Graham Literary Trust. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(c)2026 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
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