How Can I Know Right From Wrong?

I have gotten to a point where I do not like arguing about "issues," like I once did. For the most part, I think they are often counter-productive (Titus 3:9). So I don't mind admitting that I avoid them when I can. However, because our young people often ask questions that are so pertinent to their lives, sometimes the subject of moral issues must be addressed. Some of the young people in the congregation where I preach have recently asked me about questions of this nature.

It is not uncommon that we are faced with dilemmas in life, many of which are moral ones in nature. Granted, many are easy for us to decide "no." For the most part, Christians are already resolved (hopefully) to not engage in things that the Bible explicitly forbids. For example, the Bible is clear on how God feels about sex outside of marriage, lusts, drunkenness, violence, theft, sowing discord, etc. But what about some of these "issues," that aren't so clear? Those things where the Bible doesn't explictly give us a "thou shalt..." or a "thou shalt not..." We are left wondering (1) Does the Bible really condemn this? (2) How far is too far? and (3) why? Some examples of this might include things like whether or not to watch a certain movie, whether or not it is really sinful to use tobbacco products, what really constitutes immodest clothing, etc. How really do we know?

Here are a series of things to consider when attempting to answer these questions for ourselves:

If we are asking about it, then we probably shouldn't do it. I think the principle set forth in Romans 14:23 indicates that if I am actually wondering or debating in my mind as to whether or not a certain action is wrong, then that is a pretty good indication that I should avoid it.

Ask ourselves, "Is this helpful?" Remember Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 6:12. Just because something, in and of itself, may not be sinful, it doesn't always mean it is a good idea to do it. There are other things to consider also.

Ask ourselves, "Will this help me go to Heaven?" or, "From what the Bible reveals to us about Heaven, do I envision this occuring in Heaven?"

Ask ourselves, "Will this help or hinder my influence for the kingdom?" Matthew 5:13-16. One who truly has a kingdom heart will hopefully base their decisions on whether or not certain things will benefit the kingdom.

Ask ourselves, "If Christ were with me, would I still do it?" Want to hear a secret? He is with you (Matthew 28:20). We are in a partnership with Jesus, walking hand in hand with Him, for the good of His precious kingdom. Let us always remember that He is indeed with us.

Sometimes we can't answer this question for someone else, because as humans, we are unable to discern hearts as Jesus was able. Sometimes we just need to take a deep breath, step back and accept that it is not our role or responsibility to be the church police (Romans 14:4; 10-12; James 4:12)

I would like to add one more thought here. When we approach these things as if Christianity was about checking off boxes on a checklist, we are setting people up to fail. Because kingdom living is so much deeper than this (Matthew 5:20). We can fulfill all the external rules and check off every box there might be, but if our heart is not where it should be, it is all in vain. I pray that I am instilling in our young people in the congregation, as well as my own children, that the heart is what matters. I say this, not because there is not a standard; there is. But if our hearts are where they should be, we will do the right thing.

Have a great day!