Cancel Culture

What is cancel culture? It has been defined on Christianpost as such: “Cancel culture is rooted in the postmodern assertion that all truth claims are individual and subjective. Each of us interprets our experiences of the world in ways that are unique to us. As a result, we are told, there can be no such thing as ‘objective’ truth.”

In its most official definition, cancel culture refers to a ‘structural cancelling’. It is mostly done by the public to people with platforms of influence, where they are thrusted out of all social spheres such that the person loses his/her legitimacy in every context. However, among our own social circles, we do observe a sort of ‘casual cancelling’ culture. This can be observed in how the phrase “you are cancelled” is so often thrown around among friends.

In cancel culture, everyone upholds their own sense of justice and has their own spin of the narrative. This often becomes contentious because due to many differing views on the truth, there is no Truth. But in God, God who is Holy and the embodiment of Truth and Light, He is the truth that we hold on to.

As Christians whose standard of truth is found in God, let us not rush to be part of cancel culture. Before we speak, let us pay attention to what is God’s truth. (Proverbs 4:20-22) Let us speak out of love, instead of engaging in quarrels. (Romans 14, Ephesians 4:29-32) For cancel culture focuses on cancelling the person, instead of the idea. With this judgment that we place on people instead of their actions, this absence of grace does not allow for repentance and restricts their redemption. So as disciples of Christ, may our posture in engaging be pure and approved by God. (2 Timothy 2:14-17, 23-26, Philippians 1:15-16)

May our speech always be gracious and seasoned with salt, that we may know how we ought to answer each one. May our spirit be sensitive and prioritise seeking and waiting on the Lord. When the time comes for us to obey, may we be filled with boldness and diligence in praying for others. And above all, may love that covers a multitude of sins guide our responses. Shalom.