1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 – “Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. Give none offence, neither to the Jews, nor to the Gentiles, nor to the church of God: Even as I please all men in all things, not seeking mine own profit, but the profit of many, that they may be saved. Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.”
Introduction
In the line of the Christian’s testimony, one of the first principles that comes to mind is that of BIBLICAL SEPARATION, or DISTINCTIVENESS, from the world around it. Israel was told to “come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty,” 2 Corinthians 6:17-18.
This separation is necessary because of the corruption of the world, which would contaminate our lives and CONFOUND our godly life and testimony (see 2 Corinthians 6:19: “Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God”). Our PERSONAL INTEGRITY, our PUBLIC WITNESS and our RELATIONSHIP TO GOD are effected by how we remain separate from the wickedness surrounding us.
Let us discuss three items today: First, distinctiveness as it relates to our PERSONAL INTEGRITY. And second, distinctiveness as it relates to our PUBLIC WITNESS. And third, distinctiveness as it relates to our RELATIONSHIP TO GOD.
