I see so many parents struggling with teens and young adults who are confused by pop culture, modern media, and their equally lost friends who are promoting error and all kinds of philosophies contrary to sound doctrine and godly living. They are paying dear prices for the confusion. Can I mention just two examples? Transgenderism and homosexuality. Can Christians disagree and argue over theological issues? Yes. Should we part company with those whose doctrines are different? Herein lies a tension. Do we challenge the beliefs of those in error or abandon them to their sin? Over the years I have had the privilege of studying the Bible with some pretty learned and amazing people, pastors and professors. So, at this stage my theology is grounded in orthodoxy and centered on God’s Word. My beliefs about the essentials of salvation, the nature of man, and Christology (the nature of Jesus) are solid. For sure, my theology isn’t perfect when it comes to non-essentials, because God has left some issues of life a mystery or given us a degree of freedom. So, what do I do when someone espouses an doctrine contrary to the essential beliefs? I will argue for the truth (the apostle Paul did that), but ultimately I will not “partner” with people who promote damnable doctrines. I will not “invite them into my house”. Why? Because it is a form of evil. Don’t let evil into your house! This is the advice of the beloved Apostle John in his latter years, I am more of a softy than he. But, I trust his advice.
Anyone who goes too far and does not abide in the teaching of Christ, does not have God; the one who abides in the teaching, he has both the Father and the Son. If anyone comes to you and does not bring this teaching, do not receive him into your house, and do not give him a greeting; for the one who gives him a greeting participates in his evil deeds. 2 John 1:10-11 NASB
In what ways is my house a household of truth, love and justice? Have I compromised the precious truth of God in ways that allow harm to come to people God has entrusted in my circle of influence? Have I substituted real love for apathy and pseud-compassion?
God, as this day begins- I pause to remember how much my thinking has changed since the first day I committed my life to Christ, His will, and His ways. I was so cock-sure of all my beliefs. But, You- patiently led me, forgave me, nurtured me, and placed me in environments where the truth is straining my from sin like a sieve. Continue that good work in me. Help me impart to others and live myself with wisdom for the outsiders who are lost in their sin, influenced so terribly by our culture, and see many saved. I believe You made us to accept truth through our God-give conscience. I am praying specifically today for parents and grown children. Draw each to Yourself and rescue them from evil.
