As church members, we stand firm against false teaching and watered-down gospel presentations that lead others astray. As Christians, we stand firm against those who would corrupt our walk with Christ. As parents, we stand firm against ungodly influences that may corrupt our children. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). So, what are we to do? Paul provides us the answer at the very end of chapter 15: “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Vintage, handmade, refurbished, or modified electrical or electronic products may not meet current safety standards and may not be in safe working order. Therefore, it is crucial for parents of young teens especially to be on guard against the influence of bad company. So motivated are they by the need for acceptance that godly wisdom in decision-making can go out the window in the face of peer pressure. Young people are desperate for the approval of others. This is especially pertinent to young people who are generally easily influenced by their peers. Before long we are no longer of Christ, but of the world with its denial of absolute authority, its rejection of the Bible as the Word of God, and its ideology of relative morality. When we associate with or take delight in the company of people with worldly morals, we run the risk of mimicking their behaviors, their language, and their habits. The point Paul makes here is pertinent to all people in all ages. No doubt this proverb was well known among Greeks of this time. For this reason, Paul quotes a proverb by the Greek poet Menander: “Bad company corrupts good character” (1 Corinthians 15:33). If not checked at the very beginning, they could begin to adopt such perverted ideas and behaviors as normal. Paul knew how easy it is for people to be influenced by such adverse teachings. He cautioned them not to take up the lifestyles of corrupt people-those who will not inherit the kingdom of God. This is why Paul tells us, “Do not be misled.”Īctually, this was the second time Paul warned the Corinthians not to be deceived (1 Corinthians 6:9). As such, it is critical that we are careful whom we form relationships with, especially those outside the church because unbelievers can cause even the strongest Christians to waver in their faith and adversely affect their walk with Christ and their witness to the world. The truth is that false teachings do not lead to holiness. Paul is telling us that in associating with false teachers, we will be adversely influenced by them.
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