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Jesus
said, "Every one that putteth away his wife, saving for the
cause of fornication, maketh her an adulteress..." (Matt.
5:32). Here it is assumed that the put away woman will enter an
unlawful sexual relation, and thus bear her own guilt for the
outcome. But the man, who puts her in a position where such an
outcome is likely, is also responsible. He causeth her to commit
adultery.” (KJ)
In
Romans 2:24 Paul tells the Jews the name of God is blasphemed
among the Gentiles through you" ("because of you"
A.S.). This did not excuse blasphemy on the part of the Gentiles
but those who caused it were likewise held accountable, and God's
name was discredited by both.
Such
statements should make us ware of our responsibility for those
about us; our obligation to see that we are not the cause
of their sin. We are not alone in this world. When we
"do our thing" it is often at the expense of some one
else's morals. Our filthy talk, indecent dress, or "pot"
trips can not be laughed off with a flippant "Well, it's my
soul." It may also be the soul of your
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little sister. Frequently parents, who have
neglected their children, finally come to their senses and try to
straighten up their lives. But they find they can not undo the
damage to their children. What a heart-breaking thought!
Society
has law and a police force to protect it from irresponsible
persons whose ungodliness is destructive to life and property.
Sane, mature people know they must accept some responsibility for
their neighbor; for unrestrained freedom quickly becomes the worst
form of slavery — we become victims of our own folly. But until
men learn to accept a moral responsibility as well — to be
concerned for our neighbor's spiritual well being — society will
continue to suffer. A police state strong enough to protect us
from a completely immoral citizenry, would be self-defeating
slavery.
True
Christianity doesn't force or impose its morals on others; but its
adherents practice their morals toward others, and are
examples of good and right rather than of darkness. We must not
cause others to sin.
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