What does the Bible teach about slander?

Words, there are so many things to be said about them.  You can use them to build others up or bring them down.  On a more personal level, they can help you get that long awaited promotion or they can help motivate your employer to give you walking papers because of some uncontrolled outburst.  In reality, words do matter.  Just consider all of the well-crafted documents that people try to have you sign on a regular basis, which can later be used to defend or incriminate you.

In today’s world, we need to be even more cautious with our words since so many things can be misconstrued with all of the modern technological conveniences.  In the past, you would often have to remember things people said during conversations.  Now with the convenience of texting, emails and all of the other gadgets available, you can say so many things is so little time.  The drawback is that when you correspond with others in written text everything can seem black and white, since the emotions and emphasis of words are not included in the words…unlike a normal conversation.  This can have dire consequences when sending emails to your work colleagues or bosses who may accidently misconstrue your thoughts and intentions.

In the New Testament, we see how Jesus Christ talks about considering the importance of what we say, with the following words.  “But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken.  For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.” (Matthew 12:36-37 NIV)

The Ten Commandments included a command against giving “false testimony against your neighbor.” (Deuteronomy 5:20 NIV)  Likewise, the Apostle Paul included gossiping and slandering in his many lists of sinful behaviors.

“Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.  They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; they have no understanding, no fidelity, no love, no mercy.  Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.” (Romans 1:28-32 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

Words, or the control thereof, definitely have a major impact on determining our character.  King Solomon said, “Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” (Proverbs 17:28 NIV)  In other words, there is a reason that the old cliché – think, before you speak – has so much meaning.

Overall, Scripture teaches that the words used by an individual, whether verbal, gestured or written, can be used in a constructive or destructive way.  Therefore, individuals are commanded to refrain from making slanderous statements that damage the character, reputation or well-being of another.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of expressing his or her opinions to others in a constructive and kind manner.

What does the Bible teach about thievery?

When many people think about thieves they envision pickpockets, muggers, carjackers, and so on.  However, the notion of stealing crosses many demographic lines and does not remain limited to just people from a poor economic background.  Take for example, all of the big investment schemes being peddled by slick looking affluent business professional types who dupe people, from all income brackets, out of their lifetime savings and retirement investments.  On a smaller scale, how many young people – regardless of their income level – have tried to shoplift electronics or clothing out of stores, or download pirated movies or music?

The Word of God makes it clear that stealing is wrong.  The Ten Commandments specifically lists not stealing as one of the commandments.  Likewise, in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul included people who engage in thievery among the many who will not inherit the kingdom of God.

“You shall not steal.”  (Deuteronomy 5:19 NIV)   

“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)

Does this mean that every business person out there could be considered a thief, just because of their shady business practices?  What about not recording your income taxes correctly or profits from a business?  Overall, there are so many ways that people can get duped or trick others out of their money or resources, with many of them being legal…while still bordering on the edge of corruptness.

In a lesser sense, what about every student that cheats on a college entrance exam or school test in general?  Then you have churches that sometimes use worship songs without following the proper copyright procedures.  And of course, you always have the offering plate issue in churches, where some religious leaders get accused of fleecing the flock of their finances.

    

Overall, Scripture commands individuals to refrain from stealing whatever rightfully belongs to another.  The definition of stealing can obviously fall within broad parameters, as there are different ways of defining thievery within the eyes of the law in regard to personal property, intellectual proprietary rights, and like manner.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of showing respect to others by not stealing what rightfully belongs to them.

What does the Bible teach about wickedness?

People in today’s society often envision wickedness when referencing morally corrupt leaders in different countries around the world.  In reality, wickedness has been around almost since the beginning of time as the Book of Genesis in the Old Testament records how the “…Lord saw how great the wickedness of the human race had become on the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of the human heart was only evil all the time.” (Genesis 6:5 NIV)  In other words, wickedness is not limited to morally corrupt leaders, but society as a whole is susceptible to degenerating to such a mindset.

In Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans, wickedness was included among a list of several sinful behaviors.

 

“Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.  They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity.  They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice.” (Romans 1: 28-29 NIV)

Also, when Jesus Christ spoke to his disciples about what comes out of person defiles a person, rather than what necessarily goes on around a person, he clarified the matter with the following words.

“He went on: ‘What comes out of a person is what defiles them.  For it is from within, out of a person’s heart, that evil thoughts come—sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, malice, deceit, lewdness, envy, slander, arrogance and folly.  All these evils come from inside and defile a person.’” (Mark 7:20-23 NIV)

Even less subtle means of wickedness are addressed in the Bible.  The Apostle John spoke about issues he encountered at one of the churches with an individual named Ditrephes, who was a hindrance to the work of the Lord due to his malicious gossiping.  The work malicious in this verse comes from the Greek word poneros, which is actually used to derive the Greek word pnoeria referenced above for wickedness.

“I wrote to the church, but Diotrephes, who loves to be first, will not welcome us.  So when I come, I will call attention to what he is doing, spreading malicious nonsense about us. Not satisfied with that, he even refuses to welcome other believers. He also stops those who want to do so and puts them out of the church.” (III John 9-10 NIV) 

Obviously, there are many examples in our current churches where congregations may have people similar to Diotrephes, who sometimes have undue influence over spiritual matters of a local church and/ or denomination or affiliation.  Basically, wickedness can silently creep into many good Bible-believing churches through one person or groups of people who purport their morally corrupt agendas…by refusing to welcome any outside believers into the church as well as intentionally pushing away or removing any believers from the church who may believe in practicing sound doctrine.

In summary, Scripture commands individuals to refrain from all forms of wickedness, or morally corrupt behavior.  Realistically, wickedness is alive and well in many parts of our society as well as many of our churches.  Therefore, we need to use careful discernment in helping to ensure this morally corrupt behavior does not take root in our personal lives as well as others around us.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of living righteously, with morals and ethics as an individual, family, community, nation and world.

What does the Bible teach about suicide?

The topic of suicide is often avoided in many churches due to its sensitive nature.  Sometimes people try to lump suicide into the same category as murder, by equating it with the commandment against murder – “You shall not murder.” (Deuteronomy 5:17 NIV)  However, there are no direct commandments against taking your own life.  Although, there are several passages that teach against taking such actions.

In the Bible, you will find two contrasting examples of people taking their own lives.  Obviously you have Judas Iscariot who killed himself for selfish reasons.  Then you had Samson who sacrificed his own life to help protect his people from enemies. 

Below you will find Matthew giving the account of Judas Iscariot killing himself, after the remorse overwhelmed him of realizing that he betrayed the innocent blood of Jesus for thirty pieces of silver.

“Early in the morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people made their plans how to have Jesus executed.  So they bound him, led him away and handed him over to Pilate the governor.  When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and the elders.  ‘I have sinned,’ he said, ‘for I have betrayed innocent blood.’  ‘What is that to us?’ they replied. ‘That’s your responsibility.’  So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.” (Matthew 27:1-5 NIV)

   

On the contrary, you have Samson who made a decision to take his own life…so he could help defeat the enemy for his people.

 “Now the rulers of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god and to celebrate, saying, ‘Our god has delivered Samson, our enemy, into our hands.’  When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying, ‘Our god has delivered our enemy into our hands, the one who laid waste our land and multiplied our slain.’  While they were in high spirits, they shouted, ‘Bring out Samson to entertain us.’  So they called Samson out of the prison, and he performed for them.  When they stood him among the pillars, Samson said to the servant who held his hand, ‘Put me where I can feel the pillars that support the temple, so that I may lean against them.’  Now the temple was crowded with men and women; all the rulers of the Philistines were there, and on the roof were about three thousand men and women watching Samson perform.  Then Samson prayed to the Lord, ‘Sovereign Lord, remember me.  Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.’  Then Samson reached toward the two central pillars on which the temple stood.  Bracing himself against them, his right hand on the one and his left hand on the other, Samson said, ‘Let me die with the Philistines!’ Then he pushed with all his might, and down came the temple on the rulers and all the people in it. Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived.” (Judges 16:23-30 NIV)

In no way are Samson’s sacrificial actions suggesting or insinuating that sick or older people in our society should practice euthanasia as a way to help better others.  Instead, Samson’s decision to save and protect others could be compared to people in our militaries…who serve and sometimes sacrifice their lives in wars to help save and protect people in our nations.  On the contrary, believers are to watch out and care for their sick and elderly family members, and if these people have no family members the church should step in to help them.

Overall, Scripture also teaches against the intentional taking of one’s own life, for self-centered reasons.  More importantly, the Bible teaches about the importance of preserving the sanctity of life.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of accepting God’s will for their lives rather attempting to usurp the sovereign providence of God.

What does the Bible teach about abortion?

One of the most sensitive issues in society today is the discussion of abortion – or the needless taking of an unborn child’s life.  Many people believe abortion should fall into the same category as murder and no one should ever have an abortion, even if it involves saving the mother’s life.  On the other extreme, many groups try to legitimize all abortions by trying to say everything centers solely on the reproductive rights of the mother, while ignoring any of the potential atrocities affecting the child in the womb.  Then you have a broad spectrum of people – in the center position of the issue – who believe that Scripture teaches abortion is wrong, many of whom also believe abortion should only be permitted in cases of incest, rape or to grave danger to the mother’s life.

In the Old Testament, one of the Ten Commandments includes the following commandment – “Thou shalt not murder.” (Exodus 20:13 NIV)  On the contrary, other parts of Scripture only teach against the needless taking of an unborn life, rather than having any direct commandments against it.  For example, the next chapter of Exodus seems to indicate that a child born prematurely, as the result of the mother getting hit during a fight, is treated the same as a regular person with the below words.

 

“If people are fighting and hit a pregnant woman and she gives birth prematurely but there is no serious injury, the offender must be fined whatever the woman’s husband demands and the court allows.  But if there is serious injury, you are to take life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, bruise for bruise.” (Exodus 21:22-25 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

  

However, to add to the confusion, various Bible versions often have varying translations of the words giving “birth prematurely.”  As a result, some people tend to have differing interpretations on the context of the words…whether they mean having stillbirth, a miscarriage resulting in the death of the unborn child, or an actual premature birth.  For example, the New Revised Standard Version uses the following words.

“When people who are fighting injure a pregnant woman so that there is a miscarriage, and yet no further harm follows, the one responsible shall be fined what the woman’s husband demands, paying as much as the judges determine.  If any harm follows, then you shall give life for life, eye for eye, tooth for tooth, hand for hand, foot for foot, burn for burn, wound for wound, stripe for stripe. (Exodus 21:22-25 NRSV, italics added for emphasis)

To make things more complicated, there were also various Old Testament laws concerning chastity that had punishments of death for any violators – which unfortunately had no provisions for saving the life of any unborn children who may have been conceived as a result of any of these prohibited sexual encounters.  In other words, many innocent children still in the womb of the mothers were often killed – not murdered – as a result of the sins of their parents.  Listed below are a few of the laws concerning marriage violations.

“If a man takes a wife and, after sleeping with her, dislikes her and slanders her and gives her a bad name, saying, ‘I married this woman, but when I approached her, I did not find proof of her virginity,’ then the young woman’s father and mother shall bring to the town elders at the gate proof that she was a virgin...If, however, the charge is true and no proof of the young woman’s virginity can be found, she shall be brought to the door of her father’s house and there the men of her town shall stone her to death.  She has done an outrageous thing in Israel by being promiscuous while still in her father’s house.  You must purge the evil from among you.” (Deuteronomy 22:13-15, 20-21, NIV)

“If a man is found sleeping with another man’s wife, both the man who slept with her and the woman must die.  You must purge the evil from Israel.” (Deuteronomy 22:22, NIV)

“If a man happens to meet in a town a virgin pledged to be married and he sleeps with her, you shall take both of them to the gate of that town and stone them to death—the young woman because she was in a town and did not scream for help, and the man because he violated another man’s wife.  You must purge the evil from among you.” (Deuteronomy 22:23-24, NIV)

In verses 25 through 27 of Deuteronomy chapter 22, Moses also included a law that any man who raped a woman was subject to the penalty of death.  Additionally, Moses dedicated most of Chapter 18 in the Book of Leviticus to laws teaching against incest with family members and the negative connotations associated with such behaviors.

On a positive note, there are several verses throughout the Old and New Testaments of the Bible that mention God knowing and consecrating people before they were even born.  In the Book of Luke, the angel Gabriel spoke to Zechariah and said their son John [the Baptist] would be filled with the Holy Spirit before he was born, evident by the baby leaping in Elizabeth’s womb.

“But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.  He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord.  He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born…When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Luke 1:13-15, 41 NIV)

Realistically, most people who have ever had children would never want to give them up, let alone imagine what their life would be like without them.  Unfortunately, many people make hard decisions everyday – and sometimes wrong decisions, that they often regret – regarding the future of children in the wombs of their respective mothers.  Overall, most reasons for present day abortions are wrong in so many ways.  Still, believers need to remember that abortion is not an unpardonable sin and they should have empathy for people who may have remorse for making such difficult decisions in the past.

In summary, Scripture does not have any direct commands against abortion.  However, it teaches about the importance of preserving the sanctity of life and the needless taking of another life, even the life of a child in a mother’s womb.  Scripture also teaches about the negative connotations associated with rape and incest.  Therefore, church leaders should empathetically teach against having abortions in most situations, while at the same time allowing individual believers to be led by the Lord in their decisions concerning abortions which may involve rape, incest and/or grave danger to the mother’s life…as well as encouraging adoptions as an alternative, when possible. 

What does the Bible teach about killing?

In the Old Testament, when Moses gave the Ten Commandments to the Israelites he included the following commandment – “Thou shalt not kill.” (Deuteronomy 5:17 KJV)  However, if you look at the New International Version of the Bible, the commandment is phrased – “You shall not murder.”

 

This sensitive topic in the Bible seems straight-forward, since taking another person’s life seems like the simple answer.  Some people believe it wrong to kill a person for any reason, and they sometimes equate killing to murder.  Just look at all of the people who are conscientious objectors to serving in the military or opponents of the death penalty.

 

On the contrary, there is a huge difference between killing and murdering someone.  Consider the moral and ethical decisions that law enforcement officers and military personnel have to make during their line of duty?  Anybody who considers joining the military needs to understand this difference, long before they ever raise their hand and get sworn into the military.  When a service member is riding around in a military vehicle and forced to make a decision to shoot somebody in the line of duty, they need to have these moral and ethical issues sorted out ahead of time.  You can say the same thing about the tough decisions that many of our valuable police officers must face every day as they serve and protect our communities.

  

The original Hebrew word for kill/murder in the Ten Commandments is ratsach, which means to dash in pieces as killing a person…especially to murder.  In other words, the emphasis is on the needless taking of another person’s life by murdering them.  Obviously, there were many Old Testament books written about the battles and wars of the Israelites, so the notion that killing is absolutely condemned by the Bible is quickly eliminated.  Take for instance when King David slew the giant Philistine with a sling and a stone, the text used the original Hebrew word muwth which means figuratively or literally to slay or kill…not murder, like in the Ten Commandments.  (I Samuel 17:50)  Additionally, death was often a punishment for unlawful acts, such as adultery, in the Old Testament. (Deuteronomy 22:20-25)

Even in the New Testament, Apostle Paul includes murders – not killings – in his lists of sinful behaviors, regardless if you use the King James Version or New International Version of the Bible. (Romans 1:29; Galatians 5:21)  Paul also recognized that the justice system of the various governments often included death as a punishment, in that he instructed believers to do the right thing by submitting themselves to the God-ordained laws of the land “…for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason.” (Romans 13:4 NIV, italics added for emphasis)  In fact Jesus Christ instructed Simon Peter to put away his sword, after he cut off an ear from one of the servants coming to arrest Jesus.  Of notice, Jesus Christ did not tell Simon Peter to get rid of his sword, since he understood its importance for defensive purposes.  (Matthew 26:50-56; John 18:10-11)

In summary, Scripture commands individuals not to murder – or maliciously kill – another person.  Killing is only permitted as a last resort, under the conditions of protecting one’s life, defending one’s nation or executing lawful justice.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of avoiding the use of such measures, unless absolutely necessary.

What does the Bible teach about deceitfulness?

Does getting the right end results always justify the means of accomplishing our goals?  So often we hear – what harm does it cause to say a little white lie, if it helps gets things done or resolve a misunderstanding?  On a short-term basis, you can often get quick results by playing around with the “wiggle room” in a situation, simply by taking part of the facts and quoting them out of context in a convincing manner.  Long-term though, the same results are usually not achieved as people usually catch onto the little ploys to deceive and/or manipulate them into doing something against their principles.

In some churches, pastors or church leaders may try to mislead the congregation by quoting Bible verses out of context and twisting the words around to accomplish a particular short-term goal, such as trying to get them to give more money to the church.  As a result, many believers may often overlook the minor discrepancies of the misquoted verses, since they are usually shamed into giving more money to the church.  However, over time, many of these same believers will get tired of these same deceptive antics used to manipulate and/or coerce their feelings into financially supporting the church, especially once they realize their money may be going to support a church that does not practice integrity.

 

Similarly, you can see the same practices played among friends or family members in a disagreement or argument, as one or more of the parties involved may try to pull the facts of the situation out of context.  A lot of people who are trying to peacefully resolve a disagreement in a prompt manner may actually become infuriated, if they realize that someone is not being truthful in the situation.  As a result, many arguments that could have been easily resolved in a matter of a few minutes with truthful dialogue instead end up as broken friendships and/or relationships due to a lack of trust.  In other words, how can you peacefully resolve a dispute among people with integrity…if one or more people are not being completely honest?

Even in the business world, deceit is often considered a rampant part of doing business in many circles.  How many times have you known people who have experienced buyer’s remorse after falling for switch and bait techniques, where a business advertises a nicer product while at the same time actually selling you a cheaper product?  Consider some of those car dealerships that try to have you sign the dotted line in purchasing a used car at a great price with financing, just to find out that they want to try recouping some of their losses by adding on a lot of other expensive things to your bill…such as window etching for possible auto theft or gap insurance because all of the hidden add-ons increased your loan-to-debt ratio.

In Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans, deceit was included among a list of several sinful behaviors.  He also instructed the Colossians not to lie to one another, because it was considered one of the many practices associated with a believer’s former sinful life.

“Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.  They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity.  They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice.” (Romans 1: 28-29 NIV, italics added for emphasis)

“Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self with its practices.”  (Colossians 3:9 NIV)

Overall, believers and churches should refrain from using any deceitful tactics in how they handle their personal or business affairs with others.  The reason being, it can sometimes take years to build up trust and respect with others, but all of that can be lost within minutes by not being honest and truthful.  Simply said, the end result does not always justify the means…if people try to accomplish goals by using deceitful practices.  As believers mature, they will understand the importance of handling all of their personal and business matters with integrity.  

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.