Bounded Set vs. Centered Set
Hey there, wonderful readers! Welcome back to the blog—having you here is always a joy. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee or winding down after a long day, I’m thrilled to share this moment with you. Let’s dive in!
I recently learned an interesting concept in class that I want to share with you: the distinction between a Bounded Set and a Centered Set in Christianity. A Bounded Set is defined by rules and beliefs; membership is determined by adhering to specific behaviors or practices. To be considered part of the community, people must meet these criteria and follow a list of do’s and don’ts to be seen as " good Christians.”
Growing up, I believed that wearing pants, using cosmetics, or wearing jewelry was sinful and could open doors for demons to enter my life. I was taught that making mistakes would lead to severe punishment and rejection by God, which fostered self-righteousness and pride within me. I often felt superior to others because I wasn't committing their sins. If I prayed more and spent more time with God, I would be exempt from wrongdoing and its consequences. This created a constant pressure to perform well and maintain a correct standing with God. Making mistakes felt unacceptable, and I experienced shame and guilt whenever I did. Fear and despair plagued my thoughts, leaving me in doubt about whether I had messed up or missed the mark. I relied on my strength and performance to achieve transformation, but I realized this was false. True transformation occurs from the inside out through an authentic relationship with Jesus. The more I tried to do it independently, the more tired and frustrated I became.
I’m incredibly grateful for this teaching, which explains that the Centered Set is about direction and relationship with Jesus—Jesus is the center. If we are centered around Christ, what matters most is the posture and direction of our lives. We need to depend on Jesus and recognize that He is the one doing the work in us to bring about genuine transformation. We don’t need to worry about performing; we can come to Him as we are. Righteousness is a gift obtained through a relationship with Christ. We should desire to “know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the sharing of His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death to attain the resurrection from the dead.” We should strive for a more Centered Set approach to Christianity. I pray and thank God for this transformative teaching; I hope you find it helpful as well. Go to Him with an unveiled face, hiding or covering nothing. Reflect and meditate on His glory to experience true transformation. He desires to heal you on the inside—from past trauma, greed, and anxiety—rather than just focusing on an outward appearance. You don’t have to maintain a facade of always being happy and joyful when, in reality, you’re not okay on the inside. This realization was truly liberating.
