Emotions can be dangerous

Dr. Terry Cheek

How often do we get caught up in the sins of others? Sexual immorality and perversion is growing exponentially, every day we discover what seems to be a greater depth to our depravity. Let’s not fail to remember our failing ethics, and lack of honesty and integrity. It seems to be on display daily. The sincere Christian can become overwhelmed by emotion and if were not careful, we can be drawn into a sin that I believe is more dangerous than any mentioned above. It is the sin which matches that of the Pharisee in the gospels. Let’s take a quick look at an example from Gods word.

From John chapter 8 we find the story of a woman caught in adultery. She is brought before the Pharisees and they in turn try to use the situation to trap Jesus. The Pharisees remind Jesus of Moses Law and ask the Lord what would He have them do? Jesus then writes in the sand and instructs the Pharisees "He who is without sin among you, let him throw a stone at her first."

The crowd disperses and Jesus ask’s the woman, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?" The woman remarks to Jesus “no one” and Jesus replies “"Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more."

I admit this is a paraphrase of the Bible account. I have a reason for doing it. I find four things from this narrative which I feel we can all learn from.

1) It’s easy to find fault in other people. Often, we know just enough to become judgmental and legalistic. If there is sin and we have absolute proof of it, we must be careful how we approach it. Our goal should always be to lead someone to repentance not rejection.

2) Fault finding leads to misuse of our Bible. The Pharisees knew the Law of Moses, by memory. Yet, they had no idea about the Law of Grace. Rightly dividing the word of God will lead us through the Law of Grace.

3) When confronting sin consult the Lord. Even though the Pharisees had wrong intentions by seeking Jesus in the matter, doing so was a teachable moment. We see firsthand how important it is to seek Gods unchanging word as we confront sin in our life or the lives of others. We should seek the Lord prayerfully, patiently and profoundly.

4) Always point sin to forgiveness. Whether it is our self, or our neighbor sin is forgivable. The Lord knows no big sin or little sin, He only knows sin. Sin separates us from God but through Jesus Christ our sin can be forgiven, and we can be restored to a lasting relationship with God. The Lord doesn’t want us being the Judge of anyone, that is His job. He wants us to be His feet that carry the gospel to those needing forgiveness and be an example of that forgiveness.

Let’s also remember the illustration of the fruit tree. The life of a Christian is to bear fruit, which is evidence of a born-again life. Which means we are saved sinners. The only difference between us and the unsaved is the blood of Jesus. We haven’t earned it and we don’t deserve it, but we should cherish it. We have answered the call of the Holy Spirit. We are saved!

Prayerfully avoid being led by emotions. It’s not going to be easy, but it is necessary if we are to have a fruitful life. A life that points others to salvation by grace and through faith in Jesus Christ. Until next time may God keep you firmly in His grip!

Terry is the Executive Director and broadcaster of The Inspiring Word media ministry

You can contact Terry by email at theinspiringword@gmail.com