What's Wrong with It?

Pastors, and perhaps Christians generally, frequently hear the question, "What's wrong with . . . . ?" The question may be about the dance, the movies, rock music, smoking, or a number of other things. One wonders, sometimes, if the question is prompted by a wish that something is wrong with the subject so that it can be indulged in. Probably the question should be, "What's right with . . . . ?"

Of course, such subjects should be judged according to God's standards which are revealed in His Word, the Bible. Our likes and dislikes and society's standards are not worthy foundations for deciding right from wrong.

The Apostle Paul gives us a guide for deciding those things which are not specifically forbidden in the Bible. It is in a context of avoiding an action which would offend a fellow Christian. The dilemma is: the proposed action is permitted by God, but it might offend my brother in Christ. Should I do it, or not? Paul's answer is, ". . . whatsoever is not of faith is sin" (Romans 14:23). In other words, if you cannot, with confidence and clear conscience go to a certain place or do a certain thing, then most likely it should not be planned.

A teacher I had in Bible institute told of the times when he had speaking engagements in the evening. After a day's scheduled classes, he would go home, have supper, and take a shower. While dressing, he would often ask his wife, "Is this shirt still all right to wear?" He said that she would never look at the shirt. But her answer was always the same: "If it's doubtful, it's dirty." He always put on a clean shirt.

There are a lot of things which might be permissible, but are not advisable. They might be acceptable, but are not the best for us. They might not hurt us, but may lead another in a wrong direction. My conscience might be clear, but someone might be shocked if they saw me acting as I plan, or if they saw me in the place I wish to visit.

The question still is: is it all right for me to do this, or to go there, or is it not? That question has to be answered, because, ". . . whatsoever is not of faith is sin."

It might be a good idea to store this motto in the back of your mind: If in doubt, don't.