Come Out From Among Them

By Rev. J. Loren Russell

O Corinthians! We have spoken openly to you, our heart is wide open. You are not restricted by us, but you are restricted by your own affections. Now in return for the same (I speak as to children), you also be open.Do not be unequally yoked together with unbelievers. For what fellowship has righteousness with lawlessness? And what communion has light with darkness? And what accord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has a believer with an unbeliever? And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? For youare the temple of the living God. As God has said: “I will dwell in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” Therefore “Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. Do not touch what is unclean, And I will receive you. ‘I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters,’ says the Lord Almighty.”

2 Corinthians 6:11-18

In a previous article titled, Live Like You’re Free, I made the statement: “We expect lying, cheating, stealing, murdering, gossiping, fornicating, committing adultery, and other such acts of lewdness from people who are in the world, but these same vices can be seen in the people of God.” I said that because all too often, the cords of tradition and the rut of routine dictate our actions. Even, in houses of worship, it seems that the objective is not to do what is right, but to do what feels comfortable and justifies positions or opinions.

The scripture text speaks of liberation. Paul, who wrote this epistle, tells his readers that they have not been “restricted” by his, or his colleagues teaching, but by their own affections; those things they love and will not release. Even the people they chose to spend time with reinforced or supported their position. Anyone who maintains destructive behaviors and/or unproductive relationships deprive themselves of the gifts God graciously gives to his sons and daughters.  

This epistle was written to those who were a part of the Corinthian church. Most were in one accord with the Lord, but there was a rebellious minority in the church who were creating problems for everyone else. Paul says in verse 17, “come out from among them.” To come from among them means to be separated, not necessarily by removing oneself physically, but from having an agreeable spirit with those who are in opposition to the will of God. As you read the text, you will see no matter the circumstance, God’s sons and daughters are to always seek the best for others and exemplify holiness, righteousness, and generosity. It is not for personal benefit, but to draw others to Christ and for God’s glory.

Paul’s concluding verses in chapter 9:13-14 solidifies that fact, “As a result of your ministry, they will give glory to God. For your generosity to them and to all believers will prove that you are obedient to the Good News of Christ. And they will pray for you with deep affection because of the overflowing grace God has given to you.

Come out from among them so that you can bring them into the presence of God. Be separated so that they can see the glory of God in you. Be generous to those who are less fortunate than yourself and God will continue blessing you with more, then you can continue being generous. “Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous. And when we take your gifts to those who need them, they will thank God” (9:11 NLT).

Come out from among them so that you can bring them into the presence of God.

Be Blessed!

Rev. J. Loren Russell is President/CEO of The JLR Company for Church Financial Strategy & Consulting; an associate minister at both Goodwill and The Greater Universal Baptist Churches in the Bronx; creator/host of “Matters of Faith – The Radio Show” on Soul 1 Radio, Monday’s 8:00 – 10:00 PM (626-226-1448) and author of Matters of Faith: The Book, an eBook available at Smashwords.com.

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