God’s people must live in the world without becoming a part of the world. We are told to come out from the sinful things of the world and remain separate. It is only then that God will claim us as His people (2 Cor. 6:17-18). As sojourners and pilgrims, we must abstain from fleshly lusts that war against our souls (1 Pet. 2:11). While the world is willing to share us with God, He is not willing to share us with this sinful world. “Adulterers and adulteresses! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with God? Whoever therefore wants to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God” (James 4:4).
Last Sunday’s sermon on “Respectable Worldliness” briefly covered only three specific examples of worldliness: gambling, drinking alcohol, and inappropriate dress. Let’s consider a few other forms of worldliness that are found in the lives of some Christians.
1. Materialism is a preoccupation with or emphasis on material objects, comforts, and considerations, with a disinterest in or rejection of spiritual matters. We are physical beings living in a physical world. We need physical things to survive. It is only natural for us to focus on these matters. Materialism is when we do so to the neglect of our spiritual lives and the authority of God.
Materialism distorts reality. “Take heed and beware of covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses” (Luke 12:15). Riches are deceitful (Matt. 13:22). They fail to deliver on their promises (Eccl. 2:11). No amount of this world’s possessions can be given in exchange for the neglect of our soul (Matt. 16:26).
This sin also impacts the way we treat others. A materialist will value others based on their wealth, power, or prestige – turning people into objects. Christians must never show favoritism based on self-serving prejudices (James 2:2-9).
There is nothing wrong with enjoying financial success, provided we have the right attitude and make the proper use of our blessings. A Christian who only views things physically or has a love of money possesses a worldly mindset.
2. Euphemisms are inoffensive expressions used as substitutes for profanity and offensive language. This is sometimes called “Christian cussing.” Some Christians may view euphemistic words to be innocent and appropriate, but the dictionary tells us what is really being said when they use such substitute words.
While euphemisms may make for more acceptable conversation, they are not fitting for the child of God. They mean the same thing as the more offensive words, so we might as well be saying the offensive words. The use of such words betrays what is really in our hearts. The same emotions prompt their use, even if they are being filtered and toned down before they leave our mouth. Replacing offensive words with less offensive words is not appropriate for one who is striving to please God. We should be willing to remove such outbursts altogether.
“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers… But fornication and all uncleanness or covetousness, let it not even be named among you, as is fitting for saints; neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks” (Eph. 4:29; 5:3-4).
3. Sinful Entertainment. There are numerous kinds of movies, TV programs, online videos, etc., to watch as entertainment. Some are rated G – but most are not. How much sin do we tolerate in our entertainment?
Different arguments are used to justify this form of worldliness. “These shows aren’t as bad as others.” “Watching these sins is not the same as doing them.” “Hearing this language doesn’t bother me.”
When God called His ancient people to come out of the world and be separate, He wasn’t suggesting they stand at the doors of the idol temples and watch their abominations. Paul admonished the Ephesians, “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Walk as children of light… And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of those things which are done by them in secret” (Eph. 5:8, 11-12).
Paul concludes his lengthy condemnation of the unbelieving Gentiles this statement: “Who, knowing the righteous judgment of God, that those who practice such things are deserving of death, not only do the same but also approve of those who practice them” (Rom. 1:32). When we buy a movie ticket we are approving of the things in the movie. How so? The ticket sales and revenue send a message to the production company; it encourages them to make similar movies. The same is true regarding views of online entertainment. Our consumption is seen by the industry as our approval.
It can be difficult to find entertainment that is free from filth. When we choose to allow sinful images, words, and storylines to enter our hearts, they will impair our efforts to perfect holiness in the fear of the Lord (2 Cor. 7:1). Entertainment is not a necessity – we can live without it. Maintaining a pure heart is necessary – we can’t see God without it (Matt. 5:8; Heb. 12:14).
God calls us to come out and be separate so He can be our Father and we can be His sons and daughters (2 Cor. 6:17-18). Imagine your children asking you for permission to go outside and play in the front yard. You give them permission, but tell them they can’t play in the street. They agree, remembering the warnings you have given them about the danger of getting hit by a car. What would you think if, after a few minutes, you looked outside and found them playing on the curb? Most likely, you would go outside and tell them to get away from the street! “But we’re not in the street,” they reply. No, but they got as close to it as they could. They have the entire yard to play in, but are drawn to the area you have forbidden for their own good.
How many times does God find His people playing on the curb today? How many times does He watch as we accidentally step into the street, then stay in the street? How many times does He hear His children trying to justify playing in the street?
“Test all things; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil” (1 Thess. 5:21-22). Think about it. I will do the same.