What does the Bible teach about idolatry?

Throughout the Bible there are many passages that teach against idolatry.  In the Old Testament, idolatry was restricted to shunning the worship of graven images, idols, stars, planets, false gods and like manner.  However, the New Testament broadened the definition of idolatry by commanding individuals to remove any hindrance, be it the worship of false gods, graven images, stars, planets, money, success, or like manner which interferes with one’s relationship with God.

Idolatry was listed among the Ten Commandments, with the following words.

“’You shall have no other gods before me.  You shall not make for yourself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.  You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the parents to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but showing love to a thousand generations of those who love me and keep my commandments.’” (Deuteronomy 5:7-10 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

Some groups of believers may that take this Old Testament passage to the extreme by saying you cannot make (or take)  images of anything, to include taking photographs of people or making statues to commemorate people.  Obviously, when the entire passage is read within context, the commandment is against people making images of Godly or earthly things, for the purpose of literally worshipping them as gods.  Moses himself encountered this problem among the Israelites while he was speaking with God on Mount Sinai for an extended length of time, as the Israelites wanted instant gratification by worshipping a god they could see…evident by their actions of melting gold jewelry for molding an idol shaped like a golden calf. (Exodus 32)

Even in the New Testament, idolatry was a major problem as Apostle Paul included it several times among the various lists of sinful behaviors.

“Or do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God?  Do not be deceived: Neither the sexually immoral nor idolaters nor adulterers nor men who have sex with men nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.”  (I Corinthians 6:9-10 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

   

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.  I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:19-21 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

In Apostle Paul’s second letter to Timothy, he further explained the definition of idolatry, by saying.

“But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.  People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money…lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people.” (II Timothy 3:1-2, 4-5 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

Overall, Scripture teaches that individuals are to enjoy the things of this world, as long as they do it in righteousness, be it recreation, personal hobbies and interests, success or like manner.  In fact, hobbies and interests play an integral role in the well-roundedness of our personal lives…along with our relationship with God and our niche in our communities.  On the contrary, we still need to use caution about elevating our pleasures and interests, whether intentionally or unintentionally, to a point that makes them trump our relationship with God.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of removing any hindrance, be it the love of success, money or like manner that interferes with their relationship with God.  

Should believers show mercifulness?

As we go through our everyday routines, we often pass people who need help as well as many who claim they need it.  Just drive down the street and you will often see your regulars standing on their respective street corners – some who stand on the same exact street intersection everyday with their cardboard signs asking for money and so on, while others whom seem rotate their locations for those of us who may catch onto their schemes.  Yet, there are many other people who are truly in need and would never ask for anything from anybody, but you can see the desperation in their eyes.

 

Do churches and believers have an obligation to show mercifulness to others who are truly in need?  Idealistically, most churches would agree they want to help people and they love doing mission work to help others.  Realistically though, many churches actually cringe when some of these same people show up at their doorsteps.  Why do you think the New Testament author of the Book of James wrote so much about some people getting treated differently in churches, based on their perceived social and/or financial statuses?

The Apostle Paul includes being unmerciful among a list of sinful behaviors in his letter to the Romans.

 “And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; Being filled with all unrighteousness…without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:  Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.”  (Romans 1:28-29, 31-32 KJV, italics added for emphasis)

Even in the everyday business world, people and companies can take advantage of the most innocent of people with the right team of attorneys.  How often do we almost accidentally sign that dotted line on an agreement or contract…just to find out we may have signed away our rights to everything we own and more.  And for what reasons, probably because we did not want to hurt anyone’s feelings or we were too lazy or trusting to not bother reading the fine print.  So who is to blame, the business attorneys who fancily craft these worded contracts and take advantage of people or the naivety of the people who sign them?  Regardless, there are many ways of not showing mercy on people, whether it involves passing by hurting people on the street or taking advantage of people in general.

In the Old Testament, King Solomon wrote about how it was wrong to take advantage of the needy and then financially destroy them in court.

“Do not exploit the poor because they are poor and do not crush the needy in court, for the Lord will take up their case and will exact life for life.” (Proverbs 16:22-23, NIV)

Realistically, we cannot help everyone to self-sufficiency since Jesus Christ explained that we will always have the poor among us. (Matthew 26:11) However, we still need to use wisdom in helping others, especially since there is a plentiful supply of people who will try to take advantage a good situation.  Regardless, Jesus taught about loving others and having mercy on them, even those who persecute us.

“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.” (Matthew 5:44-45 NIV)

Jesus also explained how we honor him by helping out those truly in need, with the following words.

“When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit on his glorious throne.   All the nations will be gathered before him, and he will separate the people one from another as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats.  He will put the sheep on his right and the goats on his left.  “Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.  For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’  “Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink?  When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you?   When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?’  “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” (Matthew 25:31-40 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

Nevertheless, we should make a concerted effort as churches and individuals in reaching out to people who truly need assistance.  Sometimes reaching out means getting out of our comfort zone, not by just handing over some loose change or leftover food, but actually interacting with people in helping them learn more about God’s love.  King Solomon does a great job at summarizing the importance of showing mercifulness with the words.

“Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” (Proverbs 14:31 NIV)

Should Christians obey magistrates?

During this current era of society, many people are often faced with difficult questions where it seems as though they are forced to do things against their will…in order to comply with government regulations.  There are endless examples of situations where people may feel coerced to compromise their faith, such as employers in how they stand by their religious convictions and apply those values to their businesses or individuals standing up for their individual beliefs and convictions in a world full of regulations.  As a result, where should believers draw the line in the sand and stand up for what they believe in matters of faith and practice?

   

For example, many Christian-owned businesses in the United States are struggling with the issue of whether they should provide company-paid health insurance to their employees, if the government makes them buy insurance with birth-control options…since many of these same business owners may have strong religious convictions against abortion and/or contraceptives.  In the same sense, numerous individual believers also feel violated as these same government mandates are trying to force them into buying individual health insurance policies with required birth-control and abortion coverage, even though they would never use such coverage and have religious convictions against using their own money to help supplement these controversial insurance policies.

Similarly, a female athlete from a Kentucky high school in the United States was recently forced to make a hard decision.  This lady was randomly assigned a racing bib for a cross-country running competition with the number “666.”  However, she had strong religious convictions against wearing this particular number during a cross-country race and she asked the racing officials for a different bib number, who declined her request.  As a result, this female athlete was unable to compete in the competition…for standing by her religious convictions.

Obviously, the Word of God teaches that believers are to obey their magistrates.  However, where should believers draw the line in the sand and stand up for what they believe in matters of faith and practice?    

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God.  Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.” (Romans 13:1-2 NIV)

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” (Titus 3:1-2 NIV)

Well, looking back to the Old Testament, there are two great examples of people standing by their faith regardless of the cost.  These individuals understood the importance of obeying their civil leaders, but they would not follow any orders that made them compromise their faith.  In other words, the leaders of their era forced them to make difficult positions about whether they should obey them, at the expense of disobeying God.

In the Book of Daniel, there are the three Jewish men – Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego – who stood by their religious convictions, by not bowing down to worship the golden image of King Nebuchadnezzar as commanded by his decrees…with the penalty of getting tossed into the middle of a fiery furnace.  After the king personally confronted these Jewish men about not bowing down to worship his gods and reiterated his threat about tossing them in a fiery furnace, the three Jewish men still stood by their convictions by saying the following.

“’King Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter.  If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand.  But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up.’” (Daniel 3:16-18 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

As the story continues, the king became furious at their response and had these three Jewish men thrown in a fiery furnace.  Nevertheless, the king was later in awe as he witnessed the three Jewish men walking around in the fiery furnace, along with a fourth person who looked like a son of the gods.  In the end, King Nebuchadnezzar had a change of heart by making a decree to the people of any nation or language who said anything against the God of these three Jewish men, that they would be cut into pieces and have their houses turned into piles of rubble.

After the reign of King Nebuchadnezzar, King Darius took over the kingdom and he wanted to place the Prophet Daniel in a leadership position over the whole kingdom.  However, there were a few of the king’s administrators and leaders who wanted to have Daniel removed, but could find nothing against his virtuous character.  So they realized the only way they could make Daniel break a law was by having the king make a temporary decree, forcing Daniel to obey his God instead of the king, which would result in Daniel getting punished and killed in a lion’s den.  These corrupt officials managed to trick the king into passing this temporary decree, and subsequently notified the king that Daniel was disobeying his decree by praying to God…not the gods of the king.  As a result, the men manipulated King Darius into tossing Daniel into a lion’s den, for his alleged disobedience to the king.  Fortunately, the God of Daniel took away the lion’s appetite, evident by Daniel’s conversation with the king the following morning.

“At the first light of dawn, the king got up and hurried to the lions’ den.  When he came near the den, he called to Daniel in an anguished voice, ‘Daniel, servant of the living God, has your God, whom you serve continually, been able to rescue you from the lions?’  Daniel answered, ‘May the king live forever!  My God sent his angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me, because I was found innocent in his sight. Nor have I ever done any wrong before you, Your Majesty.’  The king was overjoyed and gave orders to lift Daniel out of the den. And when Daniel was lifted from the den, no wound was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.” (Daniel 6:19-23 NIV)

Once King Darius realized the power of Daniel’s faith and God, he released Daniel and placed the men who falsely accused him, along with their wives and children, into the den of lions…where the lions overpowered them before they even hit the floor.  Much like King Nebuchadnezzar’s response, King Darius issued a decree to the peoples, nations and men of every language that all of his kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel.

In summary, Christians need to remember that we have a responsibility to obey our civil leaders and magistrates, as a testimony of our faith in God.  In contrast, we may need to use wisdom in discerning some laws and orders – such as the ones that may just irritate us and the ones that may make us compromise the more important matters of our faith, our relationship with God.  Overall, Christians are to remain obedient to our civil magistrates; however, our obedience to God trumps any man-made rules that may make us compromise our faith and disobey God.

Should Christians obey their pastors?

After attending a church over a period of time, believers often have to confront a common question about how they should perceive their pastors’ authority.  Do they just blindly submit to every whim and woe of their pastor?  Do they look up to their pastors as mentors, and take everything with a grain of salt?  The question concerning pastoral authority may seem simple and unnecessary, but the end results of how believers respond to their pastors tend may have major implications and ramifications...if pastors accidentally, or intentionally, skew their teachings away from the Word of God.

So how should we interpret the following instructions, presumably written by the Apostle Paul, to the Hebrews?

“Obey your leaders and submit to their authority.  They keep watch over you as men who must give account.  Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you.” (Hebrews 13:17 NIV)

In regard to the above passage, if you look at the origin of the word obey in the Greek language, it actually means many things – such as obeying, making friends, having confidence, trusting and so on.  In the same sense, submit means to yield.  In other words, there are different ways of looking at this passage, but the overall them remains the same…believers are to show some sort of respect to their pastors in order that they better fulfill their purpose in leading others, with joy and not as a burden.

As for submitting to leaders, we can argue about how much submission is healthy and realistic.  However, why should believers submit to leaders?  The old adage found in the Book of Proverbs – “As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.” – explains how people can learn from one another and become stronger in their faith, just by being accountable to one another. (Proverbs 27:17 NIV)

On the other side of the argument, many believers will graciously follow their pastors to a degree…but not “blindly” follow their pastors to the extreme.  The reason being, they believe that the Bible teaches that believers should remain accountable to their pastors.  However, they also believe that people are ultimately accountable to God for their actions, and they cannot blame anyone else (even pastors) for their inactions…especially when most people spend their time outside of the church, except for worship-related activities.

In the Book of Matthew, you find Jesus Christ explaining that people will have to give account for every careless word they have spoken, not just how they conducted themselves in a church environment.  Likewise, you find the Apostle Paul reiterating this same point in his letter to the Romans.

“But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken.” (Matthew 12:36 NIV)

“So then, each of us will give an account of ourselves to God.” (Romans 14:12 NIV)

As for the main question, to whom are we accountable…and for what?  Jesus Christ makes it clear that we are ultimately accountable to God.  In contrast, pastors watching over us are still accountable for how they minister to our spiritual needs, and we are to submit to them in making their work in the ministry a joy…so that they can help easier help others.

 

In other words, the pastors’ roles are overseeing their respective congregations, by helping ensure everyone utilizes their individual talents and spiritual gifts in a beneficial manner to the overall purpose of the church.  As a result, believers should yield themselves to their pastors out of respect in helping them fulfill the mission of the church.  While at the same time, believers need to remember that their pastors are still only human, just like themselves, and subject making errors in judgment.

 

Therefore, the believers’ accountability to God trumps any accountability to their respective pastors, in that their personal convictions may a times cause them to disagree with the pastors.  At the same time it does not diminish believers from respecting the leadership roles of the pastors in regard to their respective congregations.  In summary, most believers will naturally want to help support the work of pastors in overseeing the growth of their churches with joy and not as a burden…as long as the pastors’ character and heart for the ministry remains above reproach.

Should Christians obey their employers?

One sensitive issue many believers face is subject of how they should act around their employers.  Obviously, most people believe that Christians should obey God, their ministers and their parents.  However, does this same teaching extend out to believers submitting to their employers?  What if the employers have differing or opposing views about religion?  Do believers still submit to their employers in all circumstances?

When the Apostle Paul wrote to the Romans, as well as Titus, he addressed the issue of believers submitting themselves to authorities.  Paul made it clear believers are in a sense rebelling against God, when they disrespect God-ordained authority, since everything should function in an orderly manner and everyone is ultimately accountable to God for their actions.  Basically, he emphasized believers should do whatever is right in these situations, as a testimony of their faith…without compromising their faith.

“Let everyone be subject to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established.  The authorities that exist have been established by God.  Consequently, whoever rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves.  For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong.  Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority?  Then do what is right and you will be commended.  For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good.  But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.  They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer.” (Romans 13:1-4 NIV)

“Remind the people to be subject to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready to do whatever is good, to slander no one, to be peaceable and considerate, and always to be gentle toward everyone.” (Titus 3:1-2 NIV)

For those of us who go to work a routine basis, the work environment can sometimes be challenging for people of faith.  In many jobs, you have the basics of putting up with people who sometimes disrespect your faith throughout the work day, whether intentional or unintentional.  Maybe you have to put up with cursing all day, hearing negative comments about your personal beliefs or convictions, being ostracized for speaking up about issues, or something similar.  Of course many employers and bosses will tell you the old cliché – if you don’t like the job, just quit and go somewhere else.  In reality, finding better employers is sometimes the best answer, but believers should not be required to give up their personal convictions and beliefs as a litmus test for employment.

Throughout the Word of God there are numerous examples of believers subjecting themselves to their employers, even under the most excruciating circumstances of slavery.  However, you will find just as many verses, if not more, teaching against employers who knowingly oppress their workers and the many negative repercussions they may face as a result of the inappropriate actions…especially since they are ultimately accountable to God for their actions.

In the Old Testament, Moses spoke various laws to the Israelites about ethics in the workplace.  Many of these laws are later quoted or paraphrased in the New Testament due to their relevance.  In addition, Jesus Christ gave a parable speaking against ungrateful employees who were upset with their employer due to previously arranged wages. (Matthew 20:1-15)

“Do not defraud your neighbor or rob him.  Do not hold back the wages of a hired man overnight.” (Leviticus 19:13 NIV)

“Whatever the land yields during the Sabbath year will be food for you – for yourself, your manservant and maidservant, and the hired worker and temporary resident who live among you, as well as for your livestock and the wild animals in your land.  Whatever the land produces may be eaten. (Leviticus 25:6-7 NIV)

“Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain.” (Deuteronomy 25:4 NIV)

“’…the worker is worth his keep.’” (Matthew 10:10 NIV)

“Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1)

In summary, believers need to remember the importance that their personal testimonies have on the workplace.  In reality, there may come times where workplace issues need to be confronted and believers should go through the appropriate channels in properly resolving any disputes, whether talking through issues on an individual basis or choosing other measures as they abide by the laws of the land. (Deuteronomy 19:15, 25:1)  In no way do believers have to give up their integrity and beliefs in the workplace, but rather their personal characters should reflect the values of God in all aspects of their work and ethics.
 

The Apostle Paul does a great job at summarizing the purpose of why believers should subject themselves to their employers, as well as God-ordained authority, with the following words.

“Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.” (Romans 13:5 NIV)

Should children obey their parents?

When it comes to obeying parents, there is often differing views among Christians in how they believe children should respond to their parent’s role of God-ordained authority.  Some Christian parents believe that their children should be in total submission to them, regardless of the situation.  While other parents believe their role is to lead and mentor their children.  So comes the question, how should children respond to their parents in these various situations?

In the Old Testament, the Fifth Commandment – of the Ten Commandments – instructs the Jewish people to honor their parents, so that they may live long in the land that God is giving them. (Exodus 20:12)  However, in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul elaborates further on this commandment in his letter to the Ephesians by adding – “Children, obey your parents….” (Ephesians 6:1 NIV)

“Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.” (Exodus 20:12 NIV)

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.  ‘Honor your father and mother’ —which is the first commandment with a promise — ‘so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life on the earth.’” (Ephesians 6:1-3 NIV)

On the surface, this may seem like a minor issue, but a lot of churches and their congregants often have high expectations for their leaders…especially their pastors, based off the teachings found in the Word of God.  For example, in the Apostle Paul’s first letter to Timothy, he made explicit standards for the overseers of the church in regard to how they should manage their family affairs…especially their children.  The question is how this passage should be interpreted – force your children to be obedient or lead them into obedience, with all honesty.

“This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work…One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)” (I Timothy 3:1, 4-5 KJV, italics added for emphasis)

In regard to the preceding passages, it sounds like pastors should use all means possible, to include force (e.g. gravity), for ensuring their children are in subjection.  Unfortunately, many churches interpret this passage to mean forcing children into submission and, as a result, sometimes set the standards for pastors to unrealistic expectations.  In reality, the word gravity is synonymous with honesty.  The word gravity is also referenced in Apostle Paul’s letter to Titus describing the character of believers – “In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity, sound speech….”  (Titus 2:7-8 KJV, italics added for emphasis)   In other words, church pastors should have their children in subjection with “all honesty”…not force.

This clarification about doing things in “all honesty” helps explain the often overlooked fourth verse, of Ephesians 6, about children obeying their parents…which also ties together the other verses.  The overall theme of the verses actually emphasize children obeying their parents “in the Lord” and fathers bringing up their children “in the training and instruction of the Lord.”  Additionally, the term obey [your parents] is actually referring to children intensely listening to their parents instructions.  So with all honesty, parents are to make a difference in their children’s lives by instilling Biblical principles and depending on God to make the changes.

“Children, obey your parents in the Lord, for this is right.  Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.” (Ephesians 6:1, 4 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

The deeper meaning among the relationships between parents and their children is not so much one of children obeying their parents in every little detail of life, but rather one of children honoring their parents…as commanded in the Ten Commandments.  In conclusion, Christian parents need to realize the unique role they have in developing their children’s personal and spiritual lives – in that one day their children will hopefully honor them, God-willing, by living out their adult lives according to the teachings of God instilled by their parents and passing them onto the future generations.   

Should believers ever get angry?

When it comes to anger, there seems to be differing views about whether or not Christians should ever become angry.  Many people believe that Christians should never get angry, or be perceived as being confrontational, since anger reflects negatively upon their personal testimonies of faith as well as the church.  Realistically, many people, including believers, get angry at many things.  The catch is do you let the sin of anger overwhelm you and possibly destroy your relationships and friendships, simply by letting feeling of bitterness fester and grow into full-blown feelings of resentment toward others.

 

For example, just try being married and see how long you last before having a confrontation with your spouse.  Unless you live in total isolation from the world – which is virtually impossible with all of today’s modern technologies – your chances of running into potential conflicts with others increase exponentially based upon your sphere of influence.  In other words, most of us have to deal with family members, coworkers, neighbors and so on.  Similarly, on an international scale, history has shown that individual countries throughout the world are not immune from conflicts and wars with other countries.

As for anger, the Apostle Paul includes this sinful behavior among the list of many sins.

“The acts of the flesh are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:19-21 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” (Colossians 3:8 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

However, the definition of anger is not always black and white.  For instance, Jesus was perceived as being angry when he overturned the money changers’ tables and ran off everyone doing transactions within the temple courts.

^“When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, Jesus went up to Jerusalem.  In the temple courts he found people selling cattle, sheep and doves, and others sitting at tables exchanging money.  So he made a whip out of cords, and drove all from the temple courts, both sheep and cattle; he scattered the coins of the money changers and overturned their tables.   To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop turning my Father’s house into a market!” (John 2:13-16 NIV)

“Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves.  ^‘It is written,’ he said to them, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer,’ but you are making it ‘a den of robbers.’” (Matthew 21:12-13 NIV)

Looking deeper into Jesus Christ’s actions and words, you will realize that Jesus was angry at the situation and not the people…although, Jesus had to confront the people to correct the situation.  The words that Jesus quoted in regard to the problem were from the prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah, in that the moneychangers were defiling the temple by turning it from a house of prayer into a den of thieves.

 

In today’s churches, how many believers and church leaders are perceived as not having the backbone to address any spiritual issues within their churches, for the fear of not wanting to offend anyone?  In reality, many church leaders and members actually believe they are helping to alleviate the problems in society by not addressing pressing spiritual issues, under the guise of trying to live in peace and harmony with one another.  Rather, some of these same believers and spiritual leaders are actually contributing to various societal problems by letting sinful behaviors go unaddressed among church members and leaders.

 

Just look at the example of couples arguing within a marriage.  What do you think happens if a married couple gets into an argument and one party decides to hold a grudge against the other for a very long time?  Well, if too much time passes, the bitterness can slowly turn into a harbored resentment towards one spouse, which can eventually drag down the whole marriage – and possibly destroy it – as well as contribute to detrimental health problems for both parties involved, let alone dissolve any spiritual harmony in the family.

The same could be said of people in bad employment situations.  How many people come home stressed out from work, but the stress is not from the actual work per se?  Instead, sometimes the stress stems from employees having to tolerate hostile work environments over long periods of time, where sensitive personnel issues with other employees do not get addressed in a timely manner or they just get completely ignored by the upper management.  So what ends up being the end result?  Usually the employees end up with some kind of health issues and/or they just quit at the first opportunity.

Thus, the below words of King David, later quoted by the Apostle Paul, ring true today.

“’In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.” (Ephesians 4:26-27 NIV)

“Be angry, and do not sin.  Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still.” (Psalm 4:4 KJV)

In summary, Scripture commands individuals from losing their self-control on objects or individuals while they are angry at any given situation.  On the contrary, as believers mature, they will understand the importance of using self-control while they are angry at the sin in any given situation.  More importantly, people need to remember the importance addressing any pertinent issues or disputes before the end of the day…and especially not holding onto feeling of bitterness for extended periods of time and letting them fester into full-blown feelings of resentment, which can possibly contribute to detrimental effects on their spiritual, physical and relational well-being.  

What does the Bible teach about ungratefulness?

Does gratitude really matter?  In these present times, it seems as though a lot of people have lost touch with being appreciative for the many blessings they receive.  So often in the news you can hear how many groups of people within our communities and nations are referred to as the entitlement generation.  Take for instance, how often do people receive thank you cards for giving birthday or Christmas gifts to their nieces, nephews or close friends and family?  If the recipients of the gifts do not show any gratitude or acknowledgement, how do the givers of the gifts respond?  Blame the kids, the parents, themselves – for possibly picking the wrong gifts – or society in general?

 

What does the Bible teach actually about ungratefulness?  The Apostle Paul includes ungratefulness as being one of the many sinful behaviors.  Jesus Christ also taught that there were many ungrateful people, in that God is even kind to them.

“People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather that lovers of God….” (II Timothy 3:2-4 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

“For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him….”   (Romans 1:21 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

“’But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back.  Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.’” (Luke 6:35 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

Conversely, the entire theme of the New Covenant emphasizes the importance of showing gratitude…in response to God’s gift of eternal life – solely through the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ.  Similarly, in the Old Testament, King David emphasized the importance of giving praise and thanks to God with a grateful heart.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16 KJV)

“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast.  For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” (Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV)

“I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonders.” (Psalm 9:1 NIV)

So there are various reasons why some people convey ungratefulness to God and others.  One of the most obvious reasons is society in general has sometimes gone through periods of history with an attitude of complacency and entitlement, which has led to the fall of many great nations.  Of course, the core reason of ungratefulness usually runs even deeper in that many believers who know the difference between doing the right and wrong things, sometimes continue to choose selfishness over righteousness.

Overall, Scripture commands believers to refrain from being unappreciative or unthankful, especially to God.  In like manner, an ungrateful attitude can also have a negative spiritual impact on our communities and nations as a whole, since many people in this current society have never personally experienced God’s eternal saving grace or worse yet never been exposed to believers who express gratitude to God on a daily basis through their personal lives.  On the contrary, believers are to convey gratitude to God by giving back of their time, talent, gifts and resources to the work of the Lord – not out of obligation or works, but as an expression of God’s love working through their lives as a testimony to others.  

What does the Bible teach about sex?

One of the most off-limit subjects in churches is talking about sex, especially outside the context of a marriage.  Too often the topic is completely avoided, as many pastors and Christians believe that even mentioning or talking about the subject may encourage young believers to engage in premarital sex.  Yet, are these same believers possibly doing an injustice to many of these people, by ill-preparing them for real world situations outside of the church environment?  In other words, a lot people outside of the religious realm perceive many young believers as being completely prudent and out of touch with reality – or totally naïve and easily persuaded to do things, such as premarital sex, due to their lack of knowledge.

 

Does it really matter if we avoid talking about taboo subjects?  Well, a lot of it depends on the timing and relevancy of the subjects in regard to any ongoing issues at hand.  Nevertheless, there are several Bible passages that talk about God’s people falling into problems…due to a lack of knowledge. (Isaiah 5:13; Hosea 4:6)  Obviously, we need to use wisdom and proper timing whenever addressing sensitive issues, but it does not reserve our right to completely avoid such discussions.  In reality, should believers learn about sexuality from within the context of the church and the Bible?  Or should believers learn about sexuality from people outside of the church, who may use another standard besides the Word of God?

So what does the Bible really teach about this sensitive topic.  Should sex only be addressed within the context of marriage and discussed only among adults who are married or have been married, as well as people considering marriage and in premarital counseling?  If so, how do pastors deal with the issue of teaching from the Old Testament book – the Song of Solomon – which uses the entire book to cover many intimate details about sexuality and marriage from the initial mutual compassion of lovers through the wedding details and beyond to the mutual contentment of the lovers.  In other words, the Bible freely talks about the importance of sexuality in a positive manner, within the context of heterosexual monogamous marriage, for all to read and learn.

    

On the contrary, there are many Biblical passages that teach against having premarital sex, or even having thoughts of sexuality or lust for others than your lawful spouse.  Additionally, there are numerous passages teaching against all kinds of sexual activity to include adultery, bestiality, incest, homosexuality, debauchery, and so on. (Exodus 20:14; 22:19; Leviticus 18:6-18, 22; Romans 1:24-27; Galatians 5:19)  Clearly, the Bible has many verses teaching against sex outside the context of marriage, including one of the Ten Commandments – “You shall not commit adultery.” (Exodus 20:14 NIV)

 

The Apostle Paul even goes as far to say that people who engage in these activities will not inherit the kingdom of God, with the words.

“The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, orgies, and the like.  I warn you, as I did before, that those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom of God.” (Galatians 5:19-21 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

 

Does this mean that if believers were ever involved in sexual activities outside the context of marriage, they will not spend eternity without God?  It sounds like a simple answer, but many believers have fallen into the trap of getting involved in sexual immorality for various reasons.  Some believers end up falling away from the church and God, because they forget about the forgiveness of God.  Strangely enough, other believers end up falling into this same trap of becoming sexually active, due to frustrations over church leaders who may have falsely accused them of sexually immoral activity in the past.  Simply said, some people after getting wrongly accused of doing something unjustly, they end up feeling as though they need to lower their personal standards to the point that they have been accused.  As a result, many of these same believers fall into the mindset of feeling ashamed, unclean and not good enough for God, let alone any church.

 

Anyway, the Apostle Paul makes it clear that those who continue to live in sexual immorality will not inherit the kingdom of God, not necessarily those who may mistakes and sincerely repent of their actions. (Galatians 5:21)  In the Corinthian church, Paul addressed many problems of sexual immorality among the believers and explained the importance of sexual relations being solely within the context of a marriage between one man and one woman. (I Corinthians 7:1-5)  Additionally, Paul said – it is good for the unmarried and widow to remain unmarried; however, if they cannot control their sexual desires, they should marry, for it better to marry than to burn with passion. (I Corinthians 8-9)  In other words, Paul was not suggesting that everything believer who committed sexual immorality would not inherit the kingdom of God, but only those who continue in such immoral behaviors.  Regardless, any believers who may be involved in sexually immoral behavior would have struggles with their faith, due to the Holy Spirit working in their lives. (Galatians 5:22-25)

On the other hand, believers who think they can straddle the fence, by playing around a little bit unnoticed and getting away with it, often get a rude awakening.  In the Old Testament, you have many examples of Kings who turned their hearts away from God by marrying unbelieving women.  For example, King Solomon married many women who were unbelievers and as he grew old his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the Lord his God, as the heart of David his father had been. (I Kings 11:4)  In the same sense, the Apostle Paul warned believers against committing sexual immorality with unbelievers, in that they unite as one with them in flesh. (I Corinthians 6:14-17)  Basically, every time believers commit sexual immorality outside the context of marriage, they potentially bring all sorts of excess baggage into their spiritual and personal lives.

Overall, the theme throughout the Bible is avoiding all forms of sexual immorality, such as unfaithfulness to a spouse, premarital sex, homosexuality, and so on.  Conversely, the Word of God calls on all believers to remain sexual pure, whether they live a life of celibacy as single people  or engage in sexual relations within the context of healthy Biblical marriages – heterosexual, monogamous marriages.  The Apostle Paul summarizes this point with the following words.

“Flee from sexual immorality.  All other sins a man commits are outside his body, but he who sins sexually sins against his own body.  Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you received from God?  You are not your own; you were bought at a price.  Therefore honor God with your body.” (I Corinthians 6:18-20 NIV)

 

What does the Bible teach about drinking?

The topic of whether or not believers should drink alcoholic beverages gets a variety of answers in churches. The answers often range from believers having no limitations on drinking alcohol to the opposite extreme of total abstinence from alcoholic beverages and not supporting businesses that sell alcohol.  Many churches have lifestyle covenants or membership commitments that you must sign and agree to follow when becoming church members, with verbiage such as – demonstrate a positive social witness by abstaining from destructive substances (e.g. alcohol, tobacco, etc.). Obviously, many churches have policies or covenants about the drinking of alcohol.  However, what does the Bible actually teach about drinking?  Are believers permitted or even allowed to drink alcoholic beverages?  If so, how much is acceptable?

 

In the Old Covenant, you find there was a stringent ordinance against the priests drinking any wine or fermented drink whenever entering into the Tent of Meeting, with the consequences of dying.  The Aaronic priests needed to distinguish between the holy and the uncommon, since they taught the Israelites all of the decrees the Lord gave them through Moses. (Leviticus 10:8-11)  Even the Nazirites – Israelite men and women who made a special vow of separation, before bringing an offering to the priests at the entrance to the Tent of the Meeting – were required to abstain from drinking any wine or fermented drink during the length of their vows. (Numbers 6:1-3)  The angel Gabriel also gave similar instructions to Zechariah concerning his son John (the Baptist), before he was born, in that John was never to consume any wine or fermented drinks, as he would be filled with the Holy Spirit from birth. (Luke 1:13-16)

King Solomon also taught against the pitfalls of letting wine and alcoholic drinks get the upper hand on your better judgments in properly handling situations. (Proverbs 23:19-21, 29-35)  King Solomon even mentioned how kings or rulers should not drink wine or alcoholic beverages, for the fear that they drink too much and forget their responsibilities for protecting the rights of the oppressed.

“It is...not for kings to drink wine, not for rulers to crave beer, lest they drink and forget what the law decrees, and deprive all the oppressed of their rights.” (Proverbs 31:4-5 NIV)

 

However, King Solomon did not teach abstinence from alcohol for all people.  He only warned leaders to use caution when consuming alcohol in that it could distort their judgments in making important decisions.  On the contrary, King Solomon actually spoke about how some people should use alcohol for medicinal purposes, to help alleviate pain and suffering.  The Apostle Paul gave similar instructions for Timothy to drink a little alcohol for his physical ailments.  Likewise, Jesus Christ gave a parable about the Good Samaritan using oil and wine to help heal the wounds of a person beat up by robbers.

“Give beer to those who are perishing, wine to those who are in anguish; let them drink and forget their poverty and remember their misery no more.” (Proverbs 31:6-7 NIV)

“Stop drinking only water, and use a little wine because of your stomach and your frequent illnesses.” (I Timothy 5:23 NIV)

”’A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he fell into the hands of robbers.  They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead.  But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.  He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine.’” (Luke 10:30, 31-34 NIV)

Obviously, there are various verses that include drunkenness among the lists of sins.  However, these lists always emphasize the sin as being drunkenness or drinking too much wine or alcoholic beverages – not drinking wine or alcoholic beverages.

“Do you not know that the wicked will not inherit the kingdom of God?  Do not be deceived:  Neither the sexually immoral…nor drunkards…will inherit the kingdom of God.” (I Corinthians 6:9-10 NIV)

“But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or…a drunkard….” (I Corinthians 5:11 NIV)

There are no direct commands saying that believers must completely abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages.  On the contrary, there are several passages that teach believers should use caution in the consumption of wine and alcoholic beverages, and to even use discretion with the use of such beverages while in the presence of others who may become offended or even weak due to alcoholic tendencies.

“’Everything is permissible’ – but not everything is beneficial.  ‘Everything is permissible’ – but not everything is constructive.  Nobody should seek his own good, but the good of others.  So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.  Do not cause anyone to stumble, whether Jews, Greeks or the church of God – even as I try to please everybody in every way.  For I am not seeking my own good but the good of many, so that they may be saved.” (I Corinthians 10:23-24, 31-33 NIV)

Overall, Scripture commands individuals to refrain from the excessive drinking of alcoholic beverages.  However, believers are permitted to drink alcoholic beverages in a responsible manner and in moderation for medicinal and/or dining purposes.  On the contrary, Scripture teaches that believers who drink alcoholic beverages in a responsible manner may have situations where they may refrain from drinking, such as being the presence of individuals who may be tempted, offended or made weak by the presence of alcoholic beverages being consumed.

In summary, as believers mature, they will understand the importance of responsibly using alcohol as well as being concerned with the welfare of others whom may or may not consume alcoholic beverages.  Likewise, believers in leadership positions should heed the advice of many Biblical leaders who taught the importance of using caution with the use of wine and alcoholic beverages…especially since they are held to a higher standard due to their direct sphere of influence on many believers.  As for whether or not believers should drink alcoholic beverages, the decision should be left up to individual believers as the Lord guides them according to their unique situations and spheres of influence.

Should believers befriend people who are homosexual?

In regard to homosexuality, many believers and churches struggle with the question – should believers befriend people who are gay or lesbian?  A vast majority of churches teach that homosexuality is a sin.  Additionally, many churches believe that the church leadership or membership should not consist of believers who are openly gay or lesbian.  Does this mean that believers should avoid any friendships or business relationships with anyone who is gay or lesbian?

Jesus Christ taught us to “Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12:31 NIV)  However, the Apostle Paul seems to contradict Jesus by saying “…you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral….” (I Corinthians 5:11 NIV)  Where does this leave believers in their desire to live a life of holiness?  Should believers separate from themselves from anyone who practices homosexuality, whether they are former or actively gay or lesbian?  What about family members?  Should believers separate a child, sibling or close relative from their lives, just because they are gay or lesbian?  Do you apply the same principle to your coworkers and/or business partners?

Obviously, believers are instructed to love everyone as themselves, but where do you draw the line.  Do you have two separate groups of friends – your church friends and your non-church friends?  In other words, you often find many dedicated believers who go to church every week and listen to messages about love your neighbor as yourself, who in turn go out into their respective communities with the message of Christianity and reach out to people, some of whom who may have a gay or lesbian lifestyle.  However, many of these same believers seem to face a chokepoint as they ponder the idea of bringing their gay and lesbian neighbors to their churches.

For example, as you might attend your favorite church for years, you hear your pastor tell you to invite visitors for the next week’s service.  However, what happens if you bring in a visitor who may look or act different than the other existing church members, such as bringing in one of your gay or lesbian friends?  In some church circles, you just might find yourself wishing that you brought along your kneepads, as a figure of speech, since the leaders may threaten to throw you out the church’s doors…along with your guest visitor.  Realistically, most people do not literally get thrown out of churches for bringing in someone different than the status quo, but far too often church members get privately counseled with strong verbal suggestions on the type of people the church leadership thinks they should or should not bring to their respective churches.  As a result, many believers have groups of friends, outside of their church friends, who they would never invite to their churches since they do not want to stir up the pot, per se…even though, deep down inside, they sincerely want their non-church friends to join them in their churches.

How then do you answer to the question – should believers befriend people who are gay or lesbian?  What if some believers have a set of friends who are gay or lesbian, separate from their church friends, both of which they intentionally keep separate from one another to avoid controversy.  Does this mean that the believers are possibly leading two separate lives and going against the teachings of the church by quietly associating with gay and lesbian people...while still being an active member of their respective churches?

The Apostle Paul does a great job at explaining where believers’ convictions should stand concerning their friendships and business relationships with anybody outside of the church, with the following words.

“What business is it of mine to judge those outside of the church?  Are you not to judge those inside?  God will judge those outside.” (I Corinthians 5:12-13 NIV)

In summary, believers should absolutely consider becoming friends with their neighbors and associates, even though they may practice homosexuality, unless those people have an obvious detrimental effect on them or their family members.  Nevertheless, we should treat our gay and lesbian family, friends and associates the same as we would anybody else.  As believers, we still need to stand by our personal convictions and ensure that our personal lives reflect those values, as well as keeping our churches and church-based organizations accountable to the teachings found in the Word of God.  However, when it comes to our friends, family and associates outside of churches, believers need to focus on making a difference in people’s lives…while depending on God to make the changes.

Should churches accept members who are homosexual?

So often believers do not want to address the topic of homosexuality in churches, because of their concern of mission creep…or the notion that once you open one door of Pandora’s Box it may cause a chain reaction of events leading to the collapse of the overall integrity of the local church.  In other words, many churches fear that if you allow any perception of acceptance concerning homosexuality, you are trying to open the doors and set the groundwork for activist groups to expand their progressive views into the church – which has already happened in different churches and denominations.

 

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul taught against sexual immorality with the words, “…a little yeast works through the whole batch of dough” and believers should “…not to associate with sexually immoral people.” (I Corinthians 5:7, 9 NIV)  Does this mean that churches and believers completely avoid any discussions about homosexuality or associations with people who practice such things?  What about people, who are going to church to find answers about homosexuality or who may have friends and family members who may be gay or lesbian?

Well, should any church even be concerned about the issue of homosexuality impacting their churches?  Realistically, if a church has a governing structure where the whole congregation or selected group of leaders can vote on doctrinal changes to the church, any new supermajority voting group can have a major impact on the voting trends and future direction of the church, whether positive or negative.  What happens if a small church decides to bring in a larger majority of its new members from the gay and lesbian community, who may have a possible interest in making the church accept their lifestyle?  In reality this happens, just look at the example of the Episcopal Church in voting to accept openly gay and lesbian clergy/members.  The same principle can apply to church sponsored groups too, such as several leaders from the Boy Scouts of America recently voting to allow openly gay scouts within their troops.

   

One of the most important things believers need to remember is differentiating between the issues of sin and the people involved in sinful behaviors.  The issue is not necessarily people who are gay and lesbian, but rather the practice of homosexuality.  In the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, he explains the importance of why believers should stay focused on confronting issues, not necessarily people, as he quotes the words of King David – “In your anger do not sin….” (Psalms 4:4 NIV)

“Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor, for we are all members of one body.  ‘In your anger do not sin’.  Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry, and do not give the devil a foothold.”  (Ephesians 4:25-27 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

Obviously, churches and believers need to confront the sin of homosexuality.  Otherwise, without accountability, churches and organizations can fall into the trap of trying to please everyone, while possibly ignoring and/or forgetting about their basic founding principles found in the Word of God.  In the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, he clarifies why churches should remove and separate themselves from any members who have the audacity to call themselves believers, while openly advocating any type of sinful behavior – to include sexual immorality – with the following words.

“But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler.  With such a man do not even eat.” (I Corinthians 5:11 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

The Apostle Paul makes it clear that churches are not to accept believers who are openly gay or lesbian, or advocates for any other sinful behavior, into its membership.  However, in no way does this mean that churches should excommunicate every person who may have homosexual tendencies…especially those who are seeking out churches in their spiritual journey to learn more about God’s love.  On the contrary, churches should embrace people from the gay and lesbian community and treat them as people, while at the same time not condoning their lifestyle or compromising the teachings found in the Word of God.