Secular Stuff

Saeculum is a word that has various interpretations and applications. It began to be used as descriptive of an age, or an important period of time. In most early uses, it was used to mark a 100 year period that began with the birth of someone important or some other important event. More recent uses include marking an 80 to 100 year cycle of 4 generations of humans, with each of those generations tending to follow the previous one in the same position of the 4 with certain responses and actions and to prepare the next with certain actions and value sets.

It is the word from which “secular” was birthed. This word was used by Roman theologians to differentiate earthly cycles and powers and events from spiritual actions and events, because Yahweh did not involve Himself in earthly affairs, in their mis-guided thoughts. After the pagan emperor Constantine’s influence on their leadership and theology, they could not grasp that Jesus had been appointed as absolute in authority over Heaven and earth (Matthew 28:18). Their inability to see the Kingdom of Heaven left them to deduce that secular was worldly, religious was Heavenly.

Because every believer has an important ministry, and the earthly work they are called to be yoked with the King in requires that they are given a spiritual empowerment sometimes called a spiritual gift, the only work that could properly be called “secular” would be work that we chose to do without the authorization and direction of our King. If we pick our work, it is secular. If Jesus picks our work, it is Kingdom. If it is Kingdom, it will have eternal value. If it is not Kingdom, it is wood, hay and stubble, and will be burned up when it is judged.

Now the end of all things is near; therefore, be clear-headed and disciplined for prayer. Above all, keep your love for one another at full strength, since love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one another without complaining. Based on the gift they have received, everyone should use it to serve others, as good managers of the varied grace of God. If anyone speaks, his speech should be like the oracles of God; if anyone serves, his service should be from the strength God provides, so that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.
(1 Peter 4:7-11 HCSB ©®)