Countering Culture – A Kingdom Perspective

When was the last time you thought about what defines success in our world today? Is it fame? Comfort? Winning at all costs? These seem to be the voices that shape so much of our culture today. But they’re also the very things that shaped culture in Jesus’ day, and He taught His disciples to resist them. That’s exactly what SAT-7 is doing by standing in the gap, offering something different than the world offers, that is, offering the hope of Christ to millions across the Middle East and North Africa. 

Affirmation vs. Significance 

We live in a world where being known is often more important than being impactful. In our American culture, success is often measured by how many followers you have or how much influence you wield. But Jesus showed us another way. If He was famous, it wasn’t because He sought it – it was because He was doing something significant. 

SAT-7 isn’t about celebrity status. It’s about significance, bringing the Gospel to places where churches are restricted and believers feel alone. Your partnership in ministry is helping make Jesus known, not for the purpose of fame, but for transformation. 

Consumerism vs. Discipleship 

We are surrounded by a culture that shouts loudly, ‘What can you do for me?’ Wall Street thrives on feeding our every want and need, and often, sadly, the Church falls into this same pattern, creating consumers instead of disciples. 

But Jesus didn’t tell us to build churches that simply feed people. He told us to make disciples – to raise up producers of faith, not just consumers of it. That’s why SAT-7 is so crucial. Its programs are not just for entertainment, but for equipping viewers to become disciples. It’s bringing biblical teaching, worship, and encouragement to those who don’t just need to be fed but need to be empowered to live out their faith, just as we all do. 

Competition vs. Unity 

Our culture loves to win. But what are we competing for? Too often, churches in the U.S. compete for the same believers. In fact, a recent study I read indicated that 96% of church growth in the U.S. comes from transfer growth, not from new believers. 

Meanwhile, millions in the Middle East and North Africa have never even heard the Gospel once. The real battle isn’t between churches – it’s against spiritual darkness wherever it occurs. God is working through SAT-7 to reach millions of the very people who have limited or no other access to the truth. You are helping to make sure this truth is broadcast 24/7 via satellite and digital media. 

The Kingdom Response: Sacrifice 

Philippians 2 reminds us that Jesus didn’t seek celebrity status, creature comforts, or competition with mankind. Instead, He sacrificed. He humbled Himself, took on human form, and gave everything for the sake of the Gospel, that all might be saved and that none should perish. 

And that’s our commission. To serve, to give, and to fight for the right things. Every dollar given and every prayer lifted is an investment in something far greater than us – it’s an investment in eternity. 

Thank you for your partnership in ministry, and I hope you will continue standing with SAT-7 in making an impact in the Middle East and North Africa that is making a difference in eternity for many.  

Blessings,

John Frick

John Frick, M.B.A., M.A.C.M., C.F.R.E. is the Vice President of Development at SAT-7 USA. He is a gifted speaker and has had many opportunities to address civic, political, and church groups regarding various current events and issues. He is passionate about the cause of the poor both in spirit and in body, as well as giving a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves. His full leadership bio is available here.