An individual that has been asking questions of the carriers of worldview- Philosophy, art, music, literature, and film- is on the way to understanding the Culture around him. The more you immerse yourself in the serious conversation around you, the more you will be able to take notice of the trends in thought that are making their way into the unsuspecting minds of people- trends that run counter to Biblical Christianity.

To best understand the culture, it is important to realize the progression cultural shifts have: philosophy, the arts, the general culture, and finally theology (see Francis Schaeffer's Escape from Reason). Understanding the culture is critical for the Christian who seeks to live off the land (Acts 17:22) and use modern (postmodern?) language to communicate Christ. Only then can we begin to change the culture.

We must keep in mind that the culture wars are never about people, they are about ideas. Ideas that have consequences and repercussions- ideas that matter. "For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war according to the flesh, for the weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh, but divinely powerful for the destruction of fortresses" (2 Corinthians 10:3-4).

Understanding culture can be accomplished through critical analysis of literature, art, film, or philosophy (I recommend the literature), but it should never be done alone. We need Christ, and his body- the church, with us every step of the way to wage war on the spiritual forces around us. And by the way, don't forget to sharpen your sword before you go to war!