Should We Associate With Worldly People?

Q: Does God’s command to be separate from the world mean that we should never associate with people who do not serve God?

A: No, this is not the meaning of the command. We know this because Jesus Himself spent time with sinners. In fact, for this very reason He was criticized by His opposers. See Mark 2:15-17. Jesus did not partake of their sins or conform Himself to their practices, but He showed them love and personal interest. This drew them to Him. We are to work in the same way.

         “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Galatians 6:1. God has given us the work of restoring the lost to Christ. Yet He cautions us to work carefully, lest we also become tempted with their sin. This verse highlights the fact that while we are to love the sinner, and associate with him for the purpose of winning him, we are to stay far from his sins.

        “And of some have compassion, making a difference:  And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.” Jude 22, 23.

        We can never do service for God by compromise. Trying to “attract” worldly people to the Lord by conforming God’s requirements to their customs and practices may seem to have positive results in growth of attendance, number of baptisms, or enthusiasm among the youth. However, under examination it is found that this method is merely another way that Satan brings the world into the church.

         In contrast, Jesus’ life and teaching present the way in which we are to reach sinners for Christ. “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” John 12:32. Lift up Jesus in all His purity and holiness. He walked the narrow way. Do not try to obscure the fact that His way is narrow, neither fail to present that His yoke is easy.

        Yes, we are to mingle with sinners in any way and any place where we can bring heavenly angels with us. We are not to accompany them to their pleasure resorts, or take part in their unhealthful and ungodly practices and abuses. We are not to expose ourselves, our young people, or our children to degrading influences in order to reach the lost. We are not to change our mode of dress, worship, music, or living in order to attract them. Rather, we are to seek for an atmosphere in which we can show them a better way. Vacation Bible Schools and cooking classes are good ways to meet unbelieving neighbors. A wholesome activity in nature, a neighborhood work bee, or even a farmers’ market, are other ways to come in contact with people who need Jesus. Visiting in people’s homes, inviting them to your home, or offering to do medical missionary work are other possibilities. 

         Stay away from any activities which cause you to compromise your conscience and the principles God has laid down in His Word. Then pray for His guidance, and seek to reach the lost as Jesus did.