Simple Concerning Evil
For your obedience is come abroad unto all men. I am glad therefore on your behalf: but yet I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.
– Romans 16:19 KJV
How do bank tellers know when they are handling fake money? Do they study counterfeiting in-depth? Must they mark every bill? No, they keep it “simple concerning evil.” They study real money. They handle real money on a regular basis. And on those occasions where the bills are big, the counterfeiters are busy, or the money feels funny, they’ll use a marker. That’s how it ought to be with good and evil.
Yes, there are times when we need to dig into cultural and religious studies in order to reach the lost. We must! It is practical…but only so far as it is practiced
We already have a consciousness of good and evil; we’ve inherited that from Adam and Eve. But we are called to study the good. Evil is intuitive enough; don’t chase it. “Refuse the evil, and choose the good.”
Philippians 4:8 is a tremendous summary of what we are to pursue: “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” *emphasis added
However, in quickly reading well-known verses, we often miss the intensity of what is being stated. I am blessed that this is such a positive verse, but if you’ll allow me, may I present a “thou shalt not” commentary on this verse?
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are false, whatsoever things are deceptive, whatsoever things are lawless, whatsoever things are corrupt, whatsoever things are hateful, whatsoever things are of evil report; if there be any vice, if there be any condemnation, DO NOT think on these things.
Please do not fixate on my commentary above, merely “emptying the house” as it were,
No, do not bury your head in the sand. We are to be salt and light
~ Eric Druist, Mailroom
All Scriptures referenced in this article are from the KJV.
Read the preceding post: “The Truth is Simple.”
Very well said and a good reminder for our Christian walk.
Thank you!
Dave and Patty
Do not think about ronya God said think on good stuff and the God peace shall be with you. Philippines 4:9 .