In the World, Not of the World

The verses below contain two prepositions: OF and INTO.  If you remember your grammar classes, you know the definition for a preposition is a word that links a noun, pronoun, or phrase to another part of the sentence.  Have you ever thought to look at the little prepositional words closely?

"I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world. Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth.  As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also sent them into the world. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also might be sanctified through the truth." - John 17:14-16 (KJV) 

The word IN (also INTO or INSIDE) is generally used to indicate a location, direction, or time frame.  On the other hand, the word OF is used to show a relation, connection, or belonging.  As a Christian - you belong to God, you are to seek a relationship with Him though Christ, and a closer connection through His Word (Holy Bible) and prayer.  You are only temporarily located on earth and therefore should not act like everyone else in the world does.  So, as a Christian you are to do your best to act like Christ, not other humans and certainly not like the devil.  In other words, although you are located in the world, you are not of the world because you belong to Christ.

What a difference a little preposition makes!

However, the "into" may also indicate it is your mission to show the world Christ.  You are to be an example of Jesus as long as you are on earth.   Your final destination is Heaven, so try to take as many people as you can with you.
 

"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind,

that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God." 
- Romans 12:2

P.S. As a side note on the phrase "freedom of religion" indicates American citizens can: belong to a Christian church, have a connection to a Christian denomination, and have a open relationship with Christ.  The preposition FROM is used to reflect an origin or source, also it can be a starting or ending point in time or location.  So "freedom from religion" seems like bad grammar, as well as an unpatriotic concept given U.S.A. founders and possibly an illegal idea according to the U.S.Constitution.