Binding Affections
Last week we discussed how we should not hide that we have sinned and that we can use our past mistakes to bring glory to God. We touched on how our past shows God’s grace and mercy because we are able to share the Light that shone out of our darkness. This week, I want to discuss the other side of this coin. While some Christian’s may feel that their past needs to be hidden and fail to see that it can be used to bring others to Christ; there are others who continue relationships with non-believers to the detriment of their testimony.
“Our mouth has spoken freely to you, you Corinthians, our heart is opened wide. 12 You are not restrained by us, but you are restrained in your own affections. 13 Now in the same way in exchange—I am speaking as to children—open wide your hearts to us, you as well. 14 Do not be mismatched with unbelievers; for what do righteousness and lawlessness share together, or what does light have in common with darkness? 15 Or what harmony does Christ have with Belial, or what does a believer share with an unbeliever? 16 Or what agreement does the temple of God have with idols? For we are the temple of the living God; just as God said, “I will dwell among them and walk among them; And I will be their God, and they shall be My people. 17 Therefore, come out from their midst and be separate,” says the Lord. “And do not touch what is unclean; And I will welcome you. 18 And I will be a father to you, And you shall be sons and daughters to Me,” Says the Lord Almighty.”
2 Corinthians 6:11-18
When you first read this passage, it would almost seem as if it is contradicting last week’s post. However, while last week Paul was pointing out that our past is a way to witness to others; now he is warning us of misplaced affections. The believers in Corinth were held back by their affection for others who did not care to follow Christ. This misplaced affection was a stumbling block. Ancient Corinth was a large and important city of Greece, needless to say idolatry ran wild. The believers in this day, according to Paul, were still maintaining close enough relationships with those who practiced beliefs outside of what Christ taught. To the point that they needed to be reminded that they were different. For believers today, this could be seen as someone who is a born-again Christian but still holds close ties with an individual or individuals who are antisemitic or make claims that go against what the Bible teaches. When this occurs, our own testimony is restrained because we are not upholding what God’s word says.
Now I do need to state here, Paul is calling us to separate from non-believers, to show that we are different. He is not calling us to not interact with non-believers; after all, it is only by interacting with the world around us are we able to show God’s grace and mercy. It is why the Bible states that we are to be in this world, but not of it. “I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the world any more than I am of the world.” John 17:14 We need to interact with non-believers so that they can see the Light that shines out of us. What Paul is warning about here, is not to allow our actions to become like those who have no intention of repenting and accepting that they are a sinner who needs Jesus Christ. Thankfully Christ knows the heart, however through a changed heart comes action. That action is visible for those around us and in ourselves who are His.
Seek the truth and encourage one another,
Alex