SPIRITUAL INDIFFERENCE
The deplorable condition of sinful man today matches, in many areas, that of Bible times (Genesis 6:5; Romans 1). We need many more Elijah's, Isaiah's, and John's to cry out against sin, to "...spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression" (Isaiah 58:8). But, alas, some of our preachers are refusing, saying they, "don't want to be negative," and will not preach anything "that is not posiitive"! By these retreating and traitor-like actions, there are many of our would-be Gospel preachers, elders, and members today who refuse the admonition of 1 Corinthians 15:58 to "...be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, foreasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord." Such is spiritual indifference!
Spiritual indifference is one of the worst troubles that weakens the work of the church. Indifference in any field of endeavor will kill the best efforts of some and the cause itself. there are those who desire the rewards without desire of the labor. God, very surely, is not willing that any should perish (2 Peter 3:9). But this does not mean that many will not perish when the Lord returns to reward His servants. God will not reward those who are found ashamed or indifferent to His will and work, except with eternal punishment (Mark 8:38).
The knowledge of duty is the measure of the known responsibility all have toward God (James 4:17). However, we must study God's Word to show ourselves approved unto God (2 Timothy 2:5). We must grow in grace and knowledge (2 Peter 1:5-11; 3:18). Although God wants to save all, He will give a man up to his passions and worldly wisdom when he rejects the Truth.
When man shows his indifference toward God and His Word, God ceases to restrain sinful man from evil, or protect him against it. In other words, when one grows indifferent to God's ways, is satisfied with the praises of men, God lets him alone to do as he pleases without hindrance from Him! Romans 1:24 implies that until God gives a man up, He is ever present by His providence to protect and care for him. God does not give man up until man gives God up!
Surely God is sorrowful to see many so totally careless for His work. Some seem to think that God cannot really see our every move and thought. That when we hold back His due, fulfilling our own wants, that He will not punish us. Some think they can cheat God. I remind you of 1 Corinthians 10:1-11, where Paul shows God's displeasure in those of His children who become indifferent to His way. When they went in their own way, they were destroyed. Paul said, "they were written for our admonition."
The church in every place, can and will grow more if we will shake off the spiritual indifference, putting our shoulders to the wheel, doing our best. Doing our best, we can conquer only in the strength of Jehovah. He will not be pleased with less than our best.
"Don't grow weary in well doing" (Galatians 6:9)
"Resist the devil and he will flee from you" (James 4:7-8).
"Be strong in the Lord" (Ephesians 6:10-18)
From Our Archives, 1994
By: Gary Colley