Innocence toward evil is a biblical concept that emphasizes the importance of maintaining purity and avoiding the corruption that comes from engaging with or understanding evil. This principle is rooted in the call for believers to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil, as seen in the teachings of the New Testament.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the concept of innocence toward evil in his letter to the Romans. In Romans 16:19 , he writes, "Everyone has heard about your obedience, so I rejoice over you. But I want you to be wise about what is good, and innocent about what is evil." Here, Paul commends the Roman believers for their obedience and encourages them to maintain a posture of innocence regarding evil matters. This instruction underscores the importance of focusing on righteousness and avoiding the taint of sin.

Old Testament Insights

The Old Testament also provides insights into the value of innocence. In Genesis, the narrative of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden illustrates the original state of human innocence. Before the fall, Adam and Eve were unaware of evil, living in perfect harmony with God. Their disobedience and subsequent knowledge of good and evil (Genesis 3) marked the loss of innocence and the entrance of sin into the world.

The Psalms frequently highlight the blessings associated with innocence and purity. Psalm 24:3-4 asks, "Who may ascend the hill of the LORD? Who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not lift up his soul to an idol or swear deceitfully." This passage emphasizes the connection between purity and the ability to stand in God's presence.

New Testament Teachings

In the New Testament, Jesus Himself speaks to the importance of maintaining a childlike innocence. In Matthew 18:3 , He states, "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven." This call to childlike faith and innocence highlights the value of purity and trust in God, free from the corruption of worldly wisdom and evil.

Paul's exhortation in Philippians 4:8 further reinforces this idea: "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think on these things." By focusing on what is good and pure, believers are encouraged to cultivate a mindset that is innocent toward evil.

Practical Application

Innocence toward evil involves a conscious effort to avoid exposure to sinful influences and to guard one's heart and mind. Proverbs 4:23 advises, "Guard your heart with all diligence, for from it flow springs of life." This vigilance requires discernment in choosing what to engage with, whether in media, relationships, or personal conduct.

Parents are encouraged to instill this value in their children, teaching them to discern right from wrong and to pursue righteousness. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to wrath; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." By nurturing a love for what is good and a disdain for evil, parents can help their children maintain innocence in a world that often glorifies sin.

Conclusion

Innocence toward evil is a vital aspect of Christian living, calling believers to focus on what is good and pure while avoiding the corruption of sin. Through biblical teachings and practical application, Christians are encouraged to cultivate a life that reflects the holiness and purity of God.