A BIG ORDER

I Thessalonians 5:22

"Abstain from all appearance of evil.", I Thessalonians 5:22

This is a tough assignment, especially in our modern setting. The benefit of such action, however, is explained in verse 23. Please read it, carefully.

The Greek word translated "appearance" here, is in 2 Corinthians 5:7, rendered "sight". Both are the quotations of Paul. Now to abstain from the sight or appearance of sin, is a big order in the days we live in.

Our society is largely, by far, urban. As an example, the rural school district where I lived as a youth had 17 houses clustered in it's boundaries. Now, 6 are occupied, and any school age children would be bussed to one of two cities nearby.

The closer proximimity of people in the cities, houses are less than 100 feet apart. It is said that Isaac went out in the field to meditate - - - some places you just can't get away from people, it seems. Our parks, urban, state, and national are usually crowded.

In our homes we 'self govern' the wickedness of the world to some degree. Radio, with it's risque (music?) and T V with it's sexually lurid programming will keep you busy 'remoting' to avoid sensuous scenes.

If the overly exposed body bothers you, stay away from poolside or seaside. If certain places have an excess of things to incite you - - - avoid them altogether.

Our text gives a clue: abstain from that which is evil. This deals mostly with things that may be seen.

This principle may be applied to many other areas, as well. Read Proverbs 23:34 to see how ridiculous actions are done, then when one looketh upon the wine when it moveth about (it is intoxicating). Abstain! Hold off! Lord help us. DDH.