"If a man beats his male or female slave with a rod and the slave dies as a result, he must be punished, but he is not to be punished if the slave gets up after a day or two, since the slave is his property." Exodus 21:20-21
How can we stand up to a world that embraces relativism when the Bible itself seems to embrace it?
Slavery is an evil thing. Buying and selling human beings in our society is not an acceptable practice. Yet it was the common practice in Moses' day. God gave Moses laws governing the treatment of slaves. Does His mention of it make it right?
God addressed the treatment of a first wife if a man marries a second. Does this make the practice of polygamy acceptable? It was also the norm.
Lord, these are tough questions. Examined out of context, these issues could rock my faith. They easily bring into question the modern day concerns about marriage, homosexuality, and abortion.
Many men and women - even in the church - are choosing to live together outside of marriage. It is common. Does it make it right?
Across our country and the world, mainstream churches are struggling with the full acceptance of the gay lifestyle. It is common. Does it make it right?
Abortion is a legal practice in our country. Unfortunately, it is common. Does it make it right?
I guess the only response I could have is: Now we know better! We have been given the gift of Your Spirit, who leads us in Your ways. We have at our disposal the wisdom of God. Embracing modern day practices that are clearly contradictory to Your Word negates Your Spirit's role in guiding us, in teaching us, in aiding us in a quest for righteousness. Embracing modern day practices that are clearly contradictory to Your Word negates the sacrifice of Your Son.
These questions are tough. But Your Spirit is tough enough to deal with the answers.
Father, I leave the answers to You. Help me to walk in Your ways. Help me to be salt and light in a world that embraces relativism. Show me the Truth, for without it, there would be no hope.