Topical Encyclopedia The concept of "keeping company with sinners" is a topic that has been addressed throughout the Bible, often highlighting the tension between maintaining personal holiness and engaging with those who do not adhere to the same moral or spiritual standards. This entry explores the biblical perspective on associating with sinners, drawing from various scriptural passages and teachings.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Israelites were repeatedly instructed to remain separate from the pagan nations surrounding them to avoid being led astray by their practices and beliefs. For instance, in Deuteronomy 7:3-4, God commands the Israelites not to intermarry with the surrounding nations, warning that such associations could lead them to worship other gods. This separation was intended to preserve the holiness and distinctiveness of God's chosen people. New Testament Teachings The New Testament presents a more nuanced view of interacting with sinners, particularly through the example and teachings of Jesus Christ. Jesus was often criticized by the religious leaders of His time for associating with tax collectors, prostitutes, and other sinners. In Matthew 9:10-11 , it is recorded: "While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with Him and His disciples. When the Pharisees saw this, they asked His disciples, 'Why does your Teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?'" Jesus' response to such criticism is pivotal. In Matthew 9:12-13 , He says, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’ For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." Here, Jesus emphasizes His mission to reach out to those in need of redemption, highlighting the importance of mercy over ritualistic separation. Apostolic Guidance The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of associating with sinners in his epistles. In 1 Corinthians 5:9-11 , Paul writes, "I wrote you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people. I was not including the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case, you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who claims to be a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or slanderer, a drunkard or swindler. With such a man do not even eat." Paul's instruction distinguishes between those within the church who persist in sin and those outside the faith. He acknowledges the impossibility of complete separation from sinners in the world but advises against close fellowship with those who claim to be believers yet live in unrepentant sin. Balancing Holiness and Outreach The biblical narrative suggests a balance between maintaining personal holiness and engaging with the world. Believers are called to be "in the world but not of the world" (John 17:14-16), living as examples of Christ's love and truth while not compromising their values. The challenge lies in loving sinners without endorsing or participating in sinful behavior. Conclusion The Bible provides a framework for understanding the complexities of associating with sinners. While the Old Testament emphasizes separation to maintain holiness, the New Testament, through the life and teachings of Jesus, encourages believers to engage with sinners compassionately, reflecting God's mercy and grace. The apostolic writings further clarify the need for discernment in relationships, particularly within the Christian community. Nave's Topical Index Luke 7:39Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it, he spoke within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet, would have known who and what manner of woman this is that touches him: for she is a sinner. Nave's Topical Index Luke 15:2 Luke 19:5-7 Library The Conservative Reaction, and the Liberal victory -- The Theory of the Church, and the History of Its Perversion. Fast-Day Service Luke. From the Close of the General Conference of 1800, to the End of ... The Evangelical Revival. Resources What did Jesus mean when He spoke of making friends by worldly wealth (Luke 16:9)? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does the Bible say about authority? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about injustice? | GotQuestions.org Unjust: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Bigotry in Opposing the Preaching of the Gospel to the Gentiles Bigotry in Regard to Circumcision Bigotry in Rejecting the Teachings of Jesus at Nazareth Bigotry in Their Treatment of the Young Man Who Was Born Blind, Whom Jesus Restored to Sight Bigotry of Being a Gluttonous Man and a Winebibber (A Wino) Bigotry of John in Forbidding the Casting out of Demons by One Who did not Follow Jesus Bigotry of Keeping Company With Sinners Bigotry of not Conforming to the Traditions Bigotry of Saul, in Persecuting the Christians Bigotry of the Disciples in Forbidding Children to be Brought to Jesus Bigotry of the Samaritans in Refusing to Receive Jesus Bigotry with Regard to Paul's Preaching Bigotry: Falsely Accusing Jesus of Blasphemy Bigotry: General Scriptures Concerning Bigotry: Jews With Regard to the Samaritans Bigotry: Joshua, Through Envy, Seeking to Suppress Eldad and Medad, Who Were Prophesying Bigotry: Paul's Argument Against Related Terms |
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