The Washed Down Christian!

As we continue to grow spiritually, it is essential for us to develop a heightened sensitivity to sin. In today’s culture, we are constantly bombarded with sexually inappropriate content wherever we turn. Satan has made it his mission to desensitize us to all forms of evil. We have witnessed a progression from the pursuit of equal rights for marginalized groups to the legalization of same-sex marriages. What was initially intended to protect the liberties of the queer community has unfortunately evolved into an environment that includes discussions of transgenderism and even pedophilia.

Recently, I engaged in a discussion with someone who disagreed with the notion that legalizing same-sex marriage would lead to the acceptance of pedophilia, bestiality, or polygamy. He argued that society would never condone the sexual abuse of children. However, it is alarming to note that the average sentence for a convicted child predator is only 7-10 years, with the most liberal states imposing sentences that are two-thirds less severe than those in the most conservative states. In my opinion, individuals who commit such heinous crimes should face castration and lifelong imprisonment. These lenient sentences demonstrate a significant decline in the stringent consequences once associated with such acts, as society adapts to its evolving “norms.” It is crucial to consider that children who experience abuse are 30-40 times more likely to contemplate suicide and nearly 50 times more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol at a young age for solace.

As we delve deeper into the issue of sin, we cannot ignore the grave problem of child trafficking that plagues our world. It is a truly heinous crime that involves the exploitation of innocent children, and it reveals a deep disregard for the sanctity of human life. In fact, the act of exploiting children can be seen as a manifestation of the unforgivable sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit.

Jesus Himself spoke about the severity of harming children, stating, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea” (Matthew 18:6). This statement underscores the value that Jesus places on the protection and well-being of children. He has always had a special place in His heart for children, demonstrating a deep and genuine love for them.

It is deeply troubling to witness instances where the fight against child trafficking faces obstacles. For instance, there have been recent attempts in California to pass a bill that would impose life sentences on child traffickers. Shockingly, those who opposed this bill were predominantly Democrats. This raises questions and concerns about the priorities and values held by those who oppose such crucial measures.

Furthermore, there have been instances where awareness of the issue has been deliberately suppressed. The release of a movie called “The Sound of Freedom,” which sheds light on the horrors of child trafficking, faced resistance from major news networks. CNN and MSNBC audaciously dismissed the movie as being only for right-wing individuals and the followers of the QAnon conspiracy theory. Theatres even manipulated the availability of tickets, making it seem sold out while intentionally keeping the seats empty. These actions by media outlets and theaters demonstrate a clear reluctance to confront and address the harsh reality of child trafficking. It serves as a telling indication of the darkness that can permeate certain segments of society.

In the face of such evil, we must remain steadfast and committed to upholding the values and teachings of Christ. We should actively raise awareness about the issue of child trafficking, supporting initiatives that aim to combat it. Let us remember that our Lord Jesus Christ passionately protected children, and we should follow in His footsteps by advocating for their well-being and actively fighting against any form of exploitation they may face.

Ultimately, this issue reminds us of the spiritual battle we are engaged in. It highlights the stark contrast between the values of the world and the teachings of Christ. As followers of Jesus, we must stand firm against the darkness, shining the light of truth and compassion wherever we go. Let us pray for the victims of child trafficking, support organizations dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating them, and work tirelessly to ensure justice and protection for the most vulnerable members of society.

How did we reach this point? How have we allowed children to be coerced into participating in drag shows at school, and how has sexual education devolved into the realm of homosexual pornography? The answer is simple: the allowance of sin in our world. We have become willing to ignore sin, either by justifying it or by misusing Biblical doctrine to dismiss its significance. I recently heard a sermon that introduced an acronym to address sin in our world. The pastor referred to it as “THINK.”

T – Is what I’m saying true?

H – Is it helpful?

I – Is it inspiring?

N – Is it necessary?

K – Is it kind?

While this sermon specifically focused on gossip and the detrimental use of our tongues to say things we shouldn’t, the pastor mentioned that his favorite feature in the world was the Facebook “block” button, which allows us to silence those who have nothing positive to contribute. However, is this biblically sound? Does the Bible truly instruct us to remain silent, keep our thoughts to ourselves, and dismissively block others?

The answer is a resounding NO.

We are called to be holy, as God Himself is holy (Leviticus 20:7). We are called to be wise, making the most of our time and understanding the will of the Lord in a world filled with evil (Ephesians 5:15-17). We are called to be loving, but that does not mean we should remain silent and ignore the glaring issues around us. We are reminded not to grieve like those who have no hope, but rather to encourage one another with the truth of Jesus’ resurrection and His promise to return (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). We are also called to rebuke sin (1 Timothy 5:20), to reason together (Isaiah 1:18), and to protect our children from the influence of evil (John 17:15).

What, then, does the Bible truly say about speaking out against sin? Does it align with the “THINK” concept often preached in mega-churches (which was originally created by a non-Christian secular school program that advocated for inclusivity and acceptance of everyone)?

The Bible states:

• “As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear” (1 Timothy 5:20).
• “Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them” (Ephesians 5:11).

These verses are just a glimpse of the numerous passages that address how we, as the Church, should approach sin. It does not say to ignore sin and leave it to God. It does not say to pretend that those engaging in sinful behaviors are in the right, under the guise of kindness. Rather, it clearly instructs us to “rebuke” and to “expose” sin.

A warning is also provided to us: “Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears, they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths” (2 Timothy 4:2).

What does this mean for us as believers? Should we leave politics solely in the hands of the secular world? Should we be ignorant and passive when confronted with sin or false doctrine? When our children are exposed to propaganda and sexually inappropriate behavior at school, should we simply pray and hope for divine intervention?

Certainly not!

First and foremost, we must diligently study and familiarize ourselves with God’s Word. As we grow spiritually, our sensitivity to sin will increase. Conversely, when we live in sin, our tolerance for it may rise. As we mature in the Spirit, God will speak to us and reveal the evil present in this world. He will provide us with knowledge and awareness of these sins. The Holy Spirit will grant us understanding of what is not aligned with God’s will. A reliable metric is that many things the world obsesses over are not priorities for God.

God does not fixate on the human body or on physical adornments such as tattoos, name-brand clothes, jewelry, muscles, or hairstyles. He advocates for modesty and self-control (1 Timothy 2:9). God does not promise us health and wealth; rather, He calls us to actively engage with the world and prevent its self-destruction.

In conclusion, it is essential that we embrace the truth of God’s Word and diligently study it. We are called to rebuke sin, expose darkness, and stand firm against false teachings. We must not remain silent or passive, but rather actively address the sins and issues prevalent in our society. Let us remember our calling to be holy, wise, loving, and protective of our children. By relying on the Holy Spirit and the guidance of God’s Word, we can navigate these challenging times with discernment and faith.