“When we choose silence
because of fear, apathy or busyness, we unknowingly become a partner in the
advancement of evil.”
What is the role of the church with these, and should pastors address them? Some respond by telling church leaders to “stay out of politics and keep their eyes on Jesus,” or “Keep the main thing, the main thing,” while others strongly advise “Do not get sidetracked from the gospel.”
Many church leaders are affected by these deep sentiments. According to one religious study, over 50% of pastors surveyed admitted they were hesitant to speak on moral issues, because of how it may offend some in their congregation.
Cleary, this is a very complex and sensitive topic. So where do we go for guidance? The Bible. And specifically, John the Baptist.
John lived in Israel during the rule of King Herod, who was appointed to that role by the occupying Roman Empire. When John began his ministry, he quickly became the most influential religious figure throughout Israel. His phenomenal ministry rocketed upward. Herod had taken interest in John’s rising popularity, and conversely, John had taken notice of Herod’s immoral choices. In particular, John was deeply troubled by Herod’s recent marriage. For John boldly stepped into a cultural issue and took on adultery, divorce and remarriage, in the personal life of King Herod.
When Herod was previously married, he went to visit his brother and had an affair with his sister-in-law (who was also his niece). Consequently, she divorced his brother and Herod’s wife divorced him. Then Herod and his sister-in-law married, and none of this was done in secret. The whole nation, including all the religious leaders, knew what happened. Yet, because Herod was a ruthless leader -- punishing, even killing, anyone who opposed him; no one spoke up. That is, except for one man. John.
On occasions, as John preached to the people of the nation, he addressed Herod’s moral failure. He pointed out how it was lawless, having violated God’s standard. Herod and his wife became aware of the influential preacher publicly condemning their immoral behavior. This especially angered Herod’s wife, which led her to conspire for John’s eventual arrest, imprisonment and execution.
Why did John speak up when he could have kept silent? Because he had to. He was driven by God and His Word, which denounced what Herod did. John knew that unless Herod submitted to God’s ways, he would come under divine judgment. He addressed the issue out of love for God, love for Herod and love of the people of his nation, who were influenced by the King. John felt he had no choice but to speak up. The Word of God burned in his bones with great conviction.
However, when he addressed the issue, he understood the potential consequences. John was aware of Herod’s brutality, but even so, he knew he had to do what was right. John understood he was ultimately accountable to only One. And what did his Lord say about him? Jesus said, “I tell you, among those born of women none is greater than John.” (Luke 7:28)
The Scripture says, “…try to discern what is pleasing to the Lord. Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.” (Ephesians 5:10-11) This is exactly what John did. Whether you are a pastor or parent, young or old, you must not be silent in the face of sin. When we choose silence because of fear, apathy or busyness, we unknowingly become a partner in the advancement of evil. Let us never be guilty of such a thing! With wisdom, love and humility, courageously speak up. Follow in the footsteps of Jesus, John the Baptist and other great Christian leaders in church history. Dare to be different. Do what is right, not what is safe and comfortable.
A prayer for you - Lord God, raise up men and women like John the Baptist, people that have your Word burning in their bones. Bring them to speak your truth no matter the consequences. Let them speak for an audience of one and for the love of their neighbor. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
