How should Romans 1:32 influence our interactions with those who practice sin? Romans 1:32 in Context Romans 1:32: “Although they know God’s righteous decree that those who do such things are worthy of death, they not only continue to do these things, but also approve of those who practice them.” The Danger of Silent Approval - Endorsing sin—actively or passively—places us alongside rebellion against God. - Proverbs 24:24-25 warns that blessing the wicked brings reproach; true love opposes wrongdoing (1 Corinthians 13:6). - Approval normalizes evil, dulling both our conscience and that of others (Isaiah 5:20). Living in a Culture That Normalizes Sin - Expect pressure to conform (1 Peter 4:4); Romans 1:32 uncovers its spiritual roots. - Refuse endorsement—verbally, socially, legislatively, digitally—whatever the arena. - Ephesians 5:11: “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them.” What Refusing Approval Looks Like • Avoid entertainment or conversations that glamorize sin. • Decline events requiring participation in clear disobedience (2 Corinthians 6:14-18). • Speak truth “with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15), never with harshness (2 Timothy 2:24-25). • Use social media intentionally: likes, shares, and comments communicate endorsement. Love Without Compromise - Galatians 6:1 urges gentle restoration of those caught in sin. - Jude 22-23 calls for mercy, “snatching others from the fire.” - Luke 15 portrays the Father’s welcoming heart, showing we may reject sin yet pursue sinners in love. Guarding Personal Holiness - 1 Corinthians 15:33: “Bad company corrupts good character.” - Psalm 1:1 counsels distance from mockers; continual Scripture intake fortifies conviction (Psalm 119:11). - Accountability with mature believers helps maintain clarity amid cultural fog. Engaging Relationally, Not Endorsing Sin • Follow Jesus’ pattern: eat with sinners (Luke 5:30-32) as a physician, not a patron. • Keep conversations redemptive—steer toward hope in Christ. • State boundaries lovingly; let friends know why certain activities violate conscience. • Offer genuine friendship that points to a better way, never mere moral superiority. When Separation Becomes Necessary - For professing believers persisting in open sin, church discipline may require distancing (1 Corinthians 5:11-13). - 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15: withdraw to awaken shame, yet treat as a brother, not an enemy. - Separation is a last resort, aiming for repentance and restoration. Practical Takeaways - Filter every endorsement—likes, votes, purchases—through Romans 1:32. - Speak up graciously when silence implies approval. - Cultivate relationships ready for gospel conversations. - Pray fervently for clear vision of sin’s seriousness and for soft, compassionate hearts toward those still captive to it. |
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