Responding to Darkness
(Ephesians 5:11)
Even in the church, there are those who follow the desires of the flesh and publicly and intentionally harm the church. How should we respond to those who carry out works of darkness?
1. Distorted Love
Some say that we should embrace and love them. But is it truly love to tolerate and overlook works of darkness? Paul, while emphasizing love, stated that love does not rejoice in iniquity but rejoices in the truth. The Lord commands, “Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather expose them!”
2. Confusing Standards
Unfortunately, many fail to discern what is unrighteous and what is true. As a result, when they encounter works of darkness within the church, they casually talk about them for amusement or even go so far as to join in. This shows they lack both a stance against sin and the ability to overcome the enemy. Such behavior among believers is generally a result of not being properly taught the Word, though some continue relationships with evildoers due to personal connections. The problem is that tolerating evil unknowingly leads to being contaminated by it, while those who witness this develop a distorted perception of evil.
3. The Right Approach
Rebuking church members is a role entrusted exclusively to the shepherd, and it is a responsibility he cannot neglect. What others should do is not rebuke but avoid participating in works of darkness, thereby leading evildoers to feel shame. When we love the church with truthful hearts, the intentions of those who seek to exploit it will be exposed. When we sacrifice ourselves for the benefit of the saints, the evil of those who incite others will be revealed. Let us not associate with those who intentionally commit evil but instead act as children of light. Let us provide opportunities for those who are darkness to recognize their evil deeds before the light and be exposed.
December 15, 2024
Overseer Sung-Hyun Kim
