Devotion for July 18, 2008

Reject a Heretic

“But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. A man that is an heretic after the first and second admonition reject; Knowing that he that is such is subverted, and sinneth, being condemned of himself . . .” (Titus 3:9-15 AV)

The last thing Paul tells Titus and those who would read this letter is not to be caught up in arguments with those who are divisive. That is they were not to argue repeatedly with a heretic. The context tells the reader that their heresy involved Jewish traditions. Wanting to hold on to Judaism they polluted the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

They were to be admonished twice with the hope that they might be converted. After that, it was important to disengage them. This is something that might exasperate the modern evangelist. Today’s evangelists will exhaust every resource to the point that one could argue they are casting pearls before swine (Matt. 7:6).

With that said a word of caution must be given. These heretics are not people who simply don’t understand, but are those who reject the truth in favor of a lie. They are stubborn, unwilling to listen. However, they are quite willing to argue which will only lead to frustration and anger which is unprofitable.

What a miracle it took to open your eyes. The heretic walks blindly into an eternity of darkness, and if it were not for the grace of God you would have followed. Praise God that He has given you truth, and a truth that sets you free (John 8:32), but do not drag the grace of God through the mud and insult the Holy Spirit. Now that you have eyes that see discern the truth about heretics.

It will not help to allow them to continue spreading their lies. As long as they can find someone to argue with they will. However, cast them out, and maybe God will be merciful to them. At the very least, the church will be spared their wicked influence.