In last week’s post I presented what for many was a new term, expressive individualism. It’s the worldview elevating self-expression as the highest ideal. “Be yourself. Express yourself, however you desire. Be who you want to be, man, woman or something in-between.” It’s the ultimate fruit of postmodern thought.
That it doesn’t make sense is beside the point. When self-expression flagrantly defies the created order, you have no more stability than a stack of Jenga blocks near the end of a game. But even as the blocks of society shake, media, public education and government doubles down to protect self-definition regardless the cost.
That we confront this in the world should be no surprise. The unredeemed nature will naturally work itself out in self-fulfillment. For this, we must remember that the answer is always in the gospel.
What surprises many is how deep expressive individualism has infiltrated the church. Ask yourself, how often do personal preferences about music, people, or forms of ministry determine the congregation one joins more than doctrine or opportunities to serve?
And it’s getting worse. The younger one is, the more their thinking is shaped by this “accept everything, be anything” mindset reflected in books, movies, and favorite TicTok personalities.
It’s vital that pastors, ministry leaders, and parents faithfully pass along the gospel with scriptural clarity, showing how true freedom and fulfillment comes not from expressing self, but in denying self, taking up the cross, and following Christ. But as we do, be ready to answer the questions and give an answer for why the gospel makes sense (thank you, Josh Fultz).
More than ever before, the call to Christ is a call to abandon what unbelievers are taught is good and right and embrace a way of life they’ve heard was backward and harmful. The Holy Spirit will bring conviction. The gospel remains the power of God unto salvation. But the church should be aware of the environment in which we now minister.
The latest 9 Marks Journal provides several insightful articles concerning Expressive Individualism. They are well worth your time. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below.
Blessings! Hosanna to the Son of David! May your Palm Sunday worship bring Him great glory!
Bro. Jim