"Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." -- Romans 12:21

"For we will all stand before God's judgment seat." -- Romans 14:10b

Each day brings new and shocking developments in the war against Christianity. It seems that everywhere you turn the homosexuals and anti-Christian blocs are becoming more aggressive in their actions to do away with Christian beliefs and concepts of behavior.

There is a movement in the United Nations to make "sexual orientation" a part of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This could result in forcing countries to accept homosexual marriage. In addition it is possible such action could curtail freedom of speech and freedom of religion through the imposition of hate crimes laws. Even now, in Canada, it is criminal to use the Bible to criticize the homosexual lifestyle.

Television and movies show all kinds of immoral behavior and claim that this is normal and represents modern life. The magazines and periodicals which stand along check out counters in most stores depict the bawdiest livestyles possible. As immoral and unBiblical conduct becomes more and more prevalent throughout daily society, great pressures are exerted upon Christians to be more understanding, more tolerant and not so dogmatic in their beliefs. Those who do criticize such immoral behavior and see it as a threat to family values and proper conduct are loudly criticized and called fanatical, bigoted, as uneducated and uncaring people who blindly follow archaic and outdated writings.

Tragically, too many church people today are falling for these messages from Satan. The desire to be socially acceptable and acclaimed are causing many to fall away from the teachings of Jesus and follow the way of modern society. Giving in to modern immorality by saying that times have changed and we must adjust.

If there was ever a time for Christians to be strong and outspoken in their faith it is now. The Bible tells us to let our belief and our example show in all ways and at all times. We are told to help those who are in sin and in danger of losing their eternal souls. We are told to be examples of Christlike behavior each and every minute of our lives. It is so apparent that the recent wave of sexual promiscuity, disregard for all kinds of decent behavior and lack of moral guidelines are resulting in a civilization drifting aimlessly along with a total disregard for the results of such actions.

The time is past when Christians can content themselves with "just being church members" and spending one hour a week at a church service. We are called to be witnesses to Jesus Christ on a 24/7 basis. There is no way that we are to separate our Christian beliefs from our daily lives. To do so is a denial of our Lord and Savior.

Max R Tyner, Pastor
Good Shepherd Evangelical Church
Geronimo, Texas