Hitchin Christian Centre

Q: Pastor, I know I'm far from perfect, but should we as a body of Christ not set our standards higher than that of our unsaved friends, neighbours and colleagues? I'm shocked how many self-professing Christians go see unsavoury movies, listen to inappropriate music, use bad language, go to the pubs and even are fine with having sex and living together prior to marriage.  I'm not in favour of legalism, but I would appreciate a sermon on holy living one Sunday.

A: Hi, thank you for question, and is certainly relevant to living as a Christian today! You are correct in saying our actions speak far louder than our words. However you must be very careful you don't drop into the pit of self-righteousness. Jesus was always being accused of mingling with the wrong type of people and meeting in inappropriate places. His take was "I go where the needy are - the healthy don't need a doctor- I've come to touch the sick!"

There are times when I meet people in their environment - like a pub. Years ago we started a pub ministry and about a dozen guys got saved! So be careful about judging people.

Holiness is the only standard of God. As children of God we are to be salt and light - bringing hope and renewal to rotting world. I too have concerns - particularly for our young people, that we lead by example. But everything must be through grace not self-righteousness!

It is already on my agenda to do a short series on "How to live out our faith".

Thank you for this timely reminder!

God Bless you,

Tony

This is a response to a question posted on our "Ask the pastor" page. To submit your own question, go to here.

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