ABSTAINING FROM EVIL
By Donald A. Webb
Scripture Reading: I Thessalonians 5: 22
As we consider our text, we note that verses 21, 22, and 23 should be understood together. We might paraphrase thus: "Prove, by testing with the Word, all things. The good, hold fast; from every form and kind of pernicious evil, hold back; and may the God of peace, Himself, sanctify you wholly." The word for abstinence literally means to hold one self back. Just as we are to hold fast that which is good, we are to hold back from every appearance of evil. Appearance here is that which is exposed to view and means every sort and form of evil. The word evil means pernicious activity, or malignant ungodly activity.
In all, God has provided us with a perfect formula for personal sanctification. Romans 12 expresses the same thought. First, we are to be transformed by the renewing of our minds (taking in the Word of God), enabling us to prove what is good (verses 1-2). Next, by obedience, we are to abhor that which is evil and cleave to that which is good (verse 9). God has enabled us to obey through the Holy Spirit Who indwells all who have trusted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. The actual step of obedience, however, is a decision must be made by the believer. Another very similar passage is in Ephesians 5. There, Paul says we are to be "proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness but, rather, reprove them" (verses 10-11). Can there be any question about God's will for our walk or His gracious provision? Hold fast that which is good, and hold back from every form of evil; and (in your obedience) the God of peace will sanctify you wholly, "Faithful is He that calleth you, Who also will do it."
How God Saves Men
Believing Christ DIED, that’s HISTORY.
Believing Christ DIED for YOU SINS and Rose again that’s
SALVATION.
Read Acts 16L31 Romans 1:16, and 1. Corinthians 15:1-4
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Connie Spivey
cspivey1953@gmail.com
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