The Catholic Church is an institution of this world, originating from and belonging to the world. Since the time of Constantine the Great in the fourth century AD, it has been deeply involved in the politics of this world. Its influence was so significant that emperors of the Roman Empire were ordained and crowned by the ruling Pope, establishing that the emperor held office at the discretion of the Pope and the Catholic Church. The church had to be consulted by emperors for approval of the empire's plans, particularly in matters of international relations. In contrast, the true church established by Jesus Christ is not of this world. Christians are warned not to love the world, as all that is in the world is not of the Father. Jesus Himself declared that His Kingdom is from heaven, the dwelling place of God. True Christians are described as strangers, pilgrims, and aliens, just passing through this present evil cosmos without participating in its political or military affairs. This distinction creates a significant difference in the involvement and conduct of members and clergy in the business and affairs of their respective churches.

Lot's involvement with the world is evident throughout his story. He greedily chose the well-watered plain of Jordan, which included the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah, and pitched his tent toward Sodom. Later, he moved into Sodom and became entangled in its politics and wars, requiring rescue by Abram. Despite this, Lot chose to remain in Sodom, rising to a position of influence as an elder at the city gate. His deep enmeshment in Sodom's culture is further shown by his hesitation to leave when warned by the angels, requiring them to physically remove him and his family. Lot's attachment to the city's lifestyle persisted even after leaving, as seen in his wife's fatal look back and his daughters' actions influenced by Sodom's perverted practices. Lot's prioritization of cultural standards, such as hospitality, over God's commandments, like the sexual purity of his daughters, underscores his worldly entanglement.

We are to live in this world but not be part of it. The world is still independently trying to determine what is good and evil, right and wrong, while we, as a new creation, dependently find what is acceptable to the Lord within His Word, under the direction of His Holy Spirit. We must not waste our time, gifts, and God-given energy getting caught up in the trickery, deceit, and cunning of a world apart from God. Instead, we are to loyally continue in what we have been called to do, living as sacrificial, sweet-smelling aromas to God within a world that remains caustic towards Him. We are no longer involved in the unfruitful works of darkness or the satanic work of independently determining good and evil. As citizens of the Kingdom of God, we must submit and respect those whom God has placed in positions of authority over us, while preparing for service to those unable to search out the pure things of God.

The world, as described, is built on sand, characterized by futility, misunderstanding, alienation from God, ignorance, lack of feeling, lewdness, uncleanness, corruption, deceit, and other negative traits. This world, influenced by Satan, represents earthly things that are sensual and demonic, in contrast to the heavenly and spiritual nature of building on the Rock, which is Christ. The dichotomy between heaven and earth is emphasized, with earthly things being corrupt and temporary, while heavenly things, represented by the Rock, are eternal and righteous. To build a life that endures, one must reject conformity to this world and its influences, which are likened to sand. This involves sweeping away worldly attachments and loyalties that distract from total devotion to God. Such attachments can include patriotism, political ideologies, materialism, power, prestige, environmentalism, health practices, and various forms of entertainment or diversion. These are forms of idolatry that separate individuals from their primary loyalty to Christ. The process of removing these worldly elements, or sand, is essential for building on the solid foundation of Jesus Christ. This requires effort, faith, diligence, and dedication, as well as a willingness to endure the pain of letting go of cherished but ungodly attachments. The ultimate goal is to be prepared for the coming crises, represented by floods or fires, which will test the foundation of one's life. Those who have built on the Rock will endure, while those who cling to sand will face destruction.