Culture: the Way to Understand and Respect (3 of 4)

Relating to other cultures can be difficult but also provide rich opportunities for growth and expanded horizons. Speaking out of ten years of experience from living in Poland, John addresses the following aspects of culture:

1. Defining culture. What is culture, and how should a Christian interact with it?
2. Approaching different cultures. Should a Christian adopt the culture around them?
3. Valuing Anabaptist culture. How can a teacher model appreciation for Anabaptist culture as a framework and anchor?
4. Evaluating traditions and family. What is the best way to allow cultural traditions to ground—but not define—a family?
5. Balancing engagement and separation. What can be learned from how Jesus interacted with His culture?

Engaging thoughtfully with culture requires wisdom and humility.

“Culture: The Way to Understand and Respect” was presented by John Smucker at Western Fellowship Teachers’ Institute in August of 2024 at Lighthouse Mennonite School in Halsey, Oregon.

You may be interested in the companion talks to this keynote address, “Commitment: The Way to Begin and Endure,” “Communication: The Way to Know and Be Known,” and “Change: The Way to Strengthen and Mature.”

1. Listen to Commitment: The Way to Begin and Endure.
2. Listen to Communication: The Way to Know and to be Known.
3. Listen to Culture: The Way to Understand and Respect.
4. Listen to Change: The Way to Strengthen and Mature