Why we cannot follow this world

We live in a time when we as Christians are urged to follow the thinking of the world, particularly when it comes to moral issues.

We are urged to compromise on what the Bible teaches and to get on “the right side of history.”

But that is something we dare not do.

Why?

Look at how Paul describes this world.

Their thoughts are futile. (Ephesians 4:17)

They have hearts hardened and calloused against God.

Because of that, their understanding has become darkened and they are excluded from the life of God. (18-19)

They are deceived by their own desires. They actually think that what is evil in God’s sight is good. They actually celebrate what God calls evil.

The result? Their lives have become corrupted, and they are headed for destruction. (22)

And so Paul charges us: “Don’t be like them.”

Rather, we must put off their way of thinking and put on our new self, “one created according to God’s likeness in righteousness and purity of the truth.” (24)

So when you are tempted to bend the teaching of Scripture to match the teaching of this world, remind yourself of the true situation of the people of this world.

Pray for them.

Be light to them.

But do not be like them.

Rather be like our Savior, who loves us and gave his life on a cross so that we might find true life.