It’s common for Christians to desire to live black & white, accepting what’s right & rejecting what is wrong. This works for some “cut and dry” moral issues, but becomes more difficult when it seems the issues seems to be more arbitrary, such as issues relating to lifestyle (eating/drinking/entertainment etc).
While we all should be pursuing a “white” life, devoid of “grey areas,” we also should realize what makes something a “grey issue”. Generally, a lack of direct communication on an issue leaves it to personal interpretation, meaning it will be interpreted by each individual who encounters it, which also means there are limitless viewpoints on the moral ramifications of the issue.
Once we realize which issues are “grey” and what makes them “grey”, we need to look down to the root of the issue. What is the original color of the issue, black or white? Was it first white, but tainted with black to become grey? Or black, tainted with white? Originally, was it a sinful thing that was watered down to be more acceptable? Or, was it a Godly thing, tainted or abused by the world, leaving it stained grey? As living followers of Jesus, we do as he did: redeeming what should be redeemed, condemning what should be condemned.
In everything though, love each other, Jesus asked us to. Well, he commanded it. Whatever our personal viewpoint is on areas considered questionable by the world or by the church, all we can do is love God, and love each other. The rest will come out in the wash.
Some Food for thought:
So whatever you believe about these things keep between yourself and God. Blessed is the man who does not condemn himself by what he approves. Romans 14:22
Love God, then do as you please. St Augustine
Everything is Meaningless. Ecclesiastes 1
Peace.
Wow. Never heard of “Grey Areas” like that! Such an interesting take on it! Thanks Travis.
Another excellent post — meaning, of course, that it’s right in line with my thinking.
And I have the same frustrations as you in your other “grey” post.
However, I particularly appreciated your pointing out that “grey” can result from watering down black or sullying white. Hadn’t thought of it quite that way before.
Are there some “grey areas” that are a matter of “It depends”? Could it be that some things are right for you but not for me? Could it depend on the circumstances? Could it also be that what was once grey can become clearly black or white?
(In this context, see James 4:17)
And, now I shall have to return to my regularly scheduled programming …