Proper Concern For Influence

Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16

Song: Ye Are The Light Of The World

The public acknowledgment of sin I’ve heard more than any other is, “I’ve been a bad example.” I would not discourage the penitent man seeking forgiveness, but I have at times been concerned for some who’ve made such a confession. I fear that some concern themselves with influence only after they’ve been caught. It may be that they’ve been “a bad example” for a long time, but only lately were seen by someone who cared about their conduct. If your light is only turned on when somebody who stands for righteousness is watching, God receives no glory in that.

The “bad example” confession may also be used to avoid the shame of admitting your real sin. We don’t need a public confessional nor to make the preacher an intermediary for the penitent saint. But if you’ve been drinking with the boys and it’s known abroad at work or school, the church ought to know to what extent you’ve hurt their influence. More than anything else, I fear that we’re not shining our light. I fear that Christians influenced by worldly peers partake of worldly pleasures. They repent for having partaken and join their associates once again, resolving within themselves to avoid their past mistakes, but never openly, unashamedly shining their light before their friends. Their light is hidden, as Jesus pointed out, under the bushel.

Shine your light. I mean really shine it. You can see the difference can’t you?

Jason Moore