As Christians, we are called to live a life that is set apart from the world. We are to be in the world but not of the world, as Jesus taught His disciples. This balance can often feel challenging, especially when faced with new believers who are still navigating the journey of transformation. It can be frustrating to witness someone profess their faith, yet continue to embrace worldly behaviors that are in direct contradiction to the teachings of scripture. One such area where this tension frequently arises is in the realm of sexual purity, particularly with pre-marital sex and the desire to indulge in fleshly desires.
The Struggle of New Christians
It is not uncommon for new Christians to experience an intense passion for their newfound faith, yet still grapple with the remnants of their former lives. When someone first comes to Christ, there is often an emotional high—a sense of freedom and joy that comes from knowing Jesus. But, as the apostle Paul pointed out in 2 Corinthians 5:17, becoming a new creation in Christ is a process. This transformation is not instantaneous; it is a journey of sanctification.
The Call to Abstain from All Appearances of Evil
Scripture teaches us to abstain from all appearances of evil. This means that as Christians, we are not only called to avoid sin but also to avoid situations and behaviors that may give the impression that we are condoning or participating in evil. In 1 Thessalonians 5:22, Paul gives a clear directive: “Abstain from every form of evil.” This doesn’t just apply to the act of sin itself but to the attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors that lead to it.
In the case of pre-marital sex, we see that scripture does not take this lightly. Paul repeatedly warns against fornication and sexual immorality, and he reminds us that those who practice these things will not inherit the kingdom of God (1 Corinthians 6:9-10). Fornication, or any sexual activity outside of the bounds of a biblical marriage, is not just a mistake; it is sin. The Bible is clear that living a life of purity is not an optional part of the Christian walk but an integral part of it.
However, it’s not just about the act itself. The apostle Paul also speaks about the “appearance of evil.” The desire to indulge in sinful acts, even if not acted upon, can still lead to spiritual decay. In a world where sexual immorality is normalized and often glamorized, Christians are called to be a light. This means resisting the urge to follow cultural norms that contradict God’s standards.
When a believer, especially a new believer, chooses to attend church with someone they desire to be physically intimate with, the line between healthy relationship and temptation becomes even blurrier. Church should be a place of spiritual growth, accountability, and community, not a place where boundaries are compromised. If the relationship between this woman and the man she speaks of becomes more than platonic, not only would they be violating God’s standards of purity, but they would also risk damaging the witness they have in the church community. This becomes a situation where the appearance of evil could potentially lead others to stumble in their faith.
The Importance of Pleasing God
Salvation is not simply a “get out of hell free” card. While the grace of God is freely given, it is not meant to be a license to continue living as we did before Christ. Ephesians 2:8-10 reminds us that we are saved by grace through faith, and that we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works—works that reflect His character and glory. Salvation isn’t just about what we are saved from; it’s about what we are saved to. We are called to live holy lives, set apart from the world, living for God’s glory.
God has given us free will, but as believers, our desire should be to please Him, not just ourselves. If we love God, we will strive to live in a way that honors Him. Jesus Himself said in John 14:15, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” It’s not enough to profess love for God; our actions must align with that love. This is not about legalism but about a heartfelt desire to please the One who gave everything for us.
The Reality of Living Set Apart
As someone who has walked with the Lord for many years, I can empathize with the struggle that comes with living a life that pleases God. I am 45 years old and, unlike many people, I have never been married. This is a choice I’ve made based on the belief that sexual purity and honoring God with my body are of paramount importance. I have never been intimate with anyone before marriage, and while that decision hasn’t always been easy, I stand firm in my commitment to living in a way that glorifies God. In a world that constantly pushes for instant gratification and temporary pleasures, my choice to remain pure is not just about avoiding sin, but about honoring God’s design for relationships.
For young Christians who may be struggling to understand the depth of the call to purity, it’s important to show grace and patience. Transformation takes time, but it also requires a commitment to God’s Word and a willingness to change. As older believers, it’s our role to come alongside them, not just with judgment, but with compassion, offering biblical guidance and encouragement. We must help them understand that God’s standards are not to be seen as burdens but as paths that lead to true joy and peace.
Conclusion
Abstaining from all appearances of evil is not just about avoiding sin—it’s about living a life that reflects the holiness of God. As believers, we are called to set ourselves apart from the world and its desires. We must understand that salvation is not an excuse to indulge in self-centered behavior, but a call to live in a way that pleases God. As we guide new Christians, let us remember that transformation takes time, but with grace, truth, and patience, we can help them grow into the fullness of the life God has called them to. Let us all strive to be holy, not just in action, but in spirit, so that we may glorify God in all that we do.