What Happened to Preaching About Worldliness?

Q: As a teenager back in the mid-20th century, I often heard sermons about worldliness. Why isn’t this preached anymore? — O.Y.

A: Worldliness is actually a spirit, an atmosphere and influence permeating the whole of life and human society, and it needs to be guarded against constantly and strenuously. The Bible says that we are to love “not” the things of the world (1 John 2:15).

Many Christians have left their first love as described in the book of Revelation. Many are neither hot nor cold; they are lukewarm concerning the things of God, needing nothing from Him. We must guard against being easily entertained. Many church goers want short messages that bring good feelings instead of conviction that will drive us to our knees.

The enticement for many is this idea of worldliness; seeking things that the world offers. There are certain elements of daily life which are not sinful in themselves but they have a tendency to lead to sin. Daily activities like what we read, how we dress and what we watch can be helpful, but if abused these things can bring about sin and cause havoc in our lives. Thought, about the necessities of life and taking care of your family, is absolutely essential, but this can easily degenerate into anxiety, and then, as Christ reminds us it can choke the seed of truth in the heart.

The Bible is full of hope for those who will take the truth to heart. “There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who do not walk according to the flesh, but according to the Spirit. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free” (Romans 8:1-2).

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)

(c)2018 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.