Vol.XVIII No.IV Pg.1
June 1981

"Causeth" Her To Sin

Robert F. Turner

Jesus said, "Every one that putteth away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, maketh her an adulteress..." (Matt. 5:32). Here it is assumed that the put away woman will enter an unlawful sexual relation, and thus bear her own guilt for the outcome. But the man, who puts her in a position where such an outcome is likely, is also responsible. He causeth her to commit adultery. (KJ)

In Romans 2:24 Paul tells the Jews the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you" ("because of you" A.S.). This did not excuse blasphemy on the part of the Gentiles but those who caused it were likewise held accountable, and God's name was discredited by both.

Such statements should make us ware of our responsibility for those about us; our obligation to see that we are not the cause of their sin. We are not alone in this world. When we "do our thing" it is often at the expense of some one else's morals. Our filthy talk, indecent dress, or "pot" trips can not be laughed off with a flippant "Well, it's my soul." It may also be the soul of your little sister. Frequently parents, who have neglected their children, finally come to their senses and try to straighten up their lives. But they find they can not undo the damage to their children. What a heart-breaking thought!

Society has law and a police force to protect it from irresponsible persons whose ungodliness is destructive to life and property. Sane, mature people know they must accept some responsibility for their neighbor; for unrestrained freedom quickly becomes the worst form of slavery — we become victims of our own folly. But until men learn to accept a moral responsibility as well — to be concerned for our neighbor's spiritual well being — society will continue to suffer. A police state strong enough to protect us from a completely immoral citizenry, would be self-defeating slavery.

True Christianity doesn't force or impose its morals on others; but its adherents practice their morals toward others, and are examples of good and right rather than of darkness. We must not cause others to sin.