What does "do not follow the crowd" teach about moral decision-making? Exodus 23:2 – The Command Clearly Stated “You shall not follow the crowd in wrongdoing. When you testify in a lawsuit, do not pervert justice by siding with the crowd.” What We Learn about Moral Decision-Making • God defines right and wrong, not popular opinion. • Morality is objective; numbers do not turn evil into good. • Peer pressure is powerful enough that God directly warns against it. • Justice must remain uncorrupted even when the majority leans the other way. • Personal integrity is measured by faithfulness to truth, not by social approval. Foundational Principles Drawn from the Verse • Stand on Scripture, not sentiment. • Evaluate every decision by God’s character—holy, just, and true. • Refuse to let emotional or social contagion override clear moral standards. • In public testimony or private choice, uphold the same standard of righteousness. • Remember that complicity in wrongdoing makes one guilty before God (cf. Proverbs 17:15). Supporting Passages that Echo the Same Call • Proverbs 1:10 – “My son, if sinners entice you, do not yield to them.” • Romans 12:2 – “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” • Matthew 7:13-14 – Only a few find the narrow way that leads to life. • Acts 5:29 – “We must obey God rather than men.” • 2 Peter 2:2 – “Many will follow their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be maligned.” Practical Steps for Resisting the Crowd Today • Anchor convictions daily in the written Word; read, memorize, and meditate. • Pray for discernment before decisions, large or small. • Surround yourself with companions who honor Christ (Proverbs 13:20). • Speak truth graciously yet firmly, even when isolated. • Accept that obedience may cost popularity, promotions, or comfort—yet brings God’s favor (1 Peter 4:14). The Blessing of Standing Apart • Assurance of a clear conscience before the Lord (Psalm 26:1-3). • A testimony that points others to the unchanging standard of righteousness. • Participation in God’s preservation of justice and truth within a fallen culture. |
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