Let's Go Back to the Bible

We Must Avoid Showing Approval!

If someone never believes, teaches or practices a doctrine or a manner of life that is contrary to the will of God, could that person ever be guilty in the eyes of God?  Let me ask that another way:  if a Christian knows of others who are spreading false doctrine (but the Christian never believes it or teaches such himself), or if a Christian knows of others who are living immoral, unholy, ungodly lives (but the Christian never practices such himself), could he ever be considered guilty of those things in the eyes of God?  Let’s consider two passages that every Christian needs to know.

In Romans chapter 1, Scripture plainly reveals that “the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men” (1:18).  Don’t miss that word “all”! In this context, the Holy Spirit proceeds to detail some examples of “all ungodliness and unrighteousness,” including idolatry, homosexuality, sexual immorality, covetousness, etc., etc.  Read the whole chapter and then let the last verse sink into your mind.  The first part of the verse is probably obvious in its truth: “…knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death…” (1:32).  Yes, “the wages of sin is death” (6:23).  But, then, the rest of the verse includes the ones who would “also approve of those who practice” these things as “deserving of death.”  A Christian may never practice some of these ungodly acts, but he is equally guilty if he shows any approval of those who do engage in these behaviors.

Now, in the little book of Second John, there is a discussion similar to Romans 1:32 but not completely identical.  Verse 9 reads, “Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God” (NASB).  That’s pretty straightforward.  One can only find favor with God when He abides in the words of Christ (cf. John 8:31; 15:7; 1 John 2:14).  When he goes beyond Christ, he steps outside that sacred fellowship (cf. 1 John 1:1-7).  But, then, there is this warning: “If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house or give him any greeting, for whoever greets him takes part in his wicked works” (10-11, ESV).  A Christian may not believe or teach a doctrine that is outside the teaching of Christ, but he is equally guilty if he shows any sign of welcome, favor or acceptance toward anyone who does.

There are false doctrines out there and ungodly lifestyles everywhere.  We must avoid them and never engage in them!  We must equally avoid showing any approval or acceptance of them!  After all, we are to be the holy, set apart, non-conformed children of the holy God!