Beech Tree News Network

Have we heard folks justify their behavior based on the thinking that all actions, and even our morality itself is “relative”? This reasoning says that there are no objective standards in life, and that the only standard for right and wrong is the standard we personally establish in our lives. It is from this thinking that we hear phrases like: “your truth,” “my truth,” etc. 

    This type of thinking has had an adverse effect on society. Folks will engage in questionable and even immoral behavior and justify it with this “relative reasoning.” For example, some might justify wrong behavior by saying, “Look at all the good accomplished!” Friend, who is it that is determining what is “good?” This reasoning is not new, but it is very dangerous. To help us appreciate the danger, do some study in the book of Romans. We find in Romans that there were some who thought that since they had been saved from sin by the grace of God, then they could continue to sin and receive even more grace (Rom. 6:12). Of course, this was not true. Others accused the apostle Paul of saying, “Let us do evil that good may come” (Rom. 3:8). He adamantly denied this charge! 

    I have heard folks justify some of the basest behavior because of some supposed “good message” that can come from it. This is wrong! “Relative” thinking draws us farther away from God and closer to Satan! We could justify any sin we like, whether it be adultery, murder, stealing, etc., when reason: “Look at the good that can be accomplished.”

    Another form of relative reasoning is: “I don’t see anything wrong with it.” How many false doctrines have been justified by this statement? Just because you or I do not see anything “wrong” with something does not make it right!  Simply put, it doesn’t matter whether or not “I” see anything wrong with it. The true test of right and wrong is determined by “What saith the scripture?” (Rom. 4:3). God’s word has been given to us for our learning. It provides us with all we need to live a godly and peaceful life in the sight of God (II Tim. 3:16-17; II Pet. 1:3). When we rely upon our own wisdom and understanding    , this is when problems arise in the home, at work, in the church, etc. Yet, isn’t this what “relative” thinking is? It is a choice men make based upon their experience rather than by God’s word! The reasoning, “I do not see anything wrong with it” does nothing but soothe the consciences of folks who are engaged in sinful practices. How truly foolish one is who justifies his behavior in this way! 

    What can we do to overcome this problem? First, resolve to speak only where the Bible speaks and be silent where the Bible is silent (I Pet. 4:11). Let us not be unwise, but understand God’s will (Eph. 5:17). Let us beware of Satan, who, “as a roaring lion walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (I Pet. 5:8). The Bible teaches us that we are to be holy as God is holy (Matt. 5:48; I Pet. 1:15-16). How can we ever be like this when we are excusing our behavior with relative reasoning? Let us stop falling for Satan’s lies. Bible truth is objective. It is concrete. Therefore, let us listen and obey His word and encourage others to do the same. Heaven awaits us when we do (Rev. 22:14)!

-- You are invited to visit with the Caneyville church of Christ. Times of services: Sun.: 10:00 am, 10:45 am, 5:00 pm; Wed.: 7:00 pm. Website: http://caneyvillechurchofchrist.com Tune in to our radio program 101.5 FM at 5:30 am, Mon-Fri. Questions? Call: (270) 589-4167