Deuteronomy 5:22 March 21 AM

Introduction Just read your daily newspaper There is a moral decay in America Things that used to be only in the “big city” Are now “small town” problems Isaiah 5:20-21 – 20 Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil; Who put darkness for light, and light for darkness; Who put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter! 21 Woe to those who are wise in their own eyes, And prudent in their own sight!

Abandonment of Absolutes Many believe absolutes are old fashioned –Speak the truth – preach rules = arrogant –“We can’t judge others.” –What about millions who disagree with you? –Life is complex – no simple answers

Abandonment of Absolutes Everything is now “relative” –In every situation – there are different rules –“Do what you think is right.” –Joseph Fletcher – professor at Emory University – Situation Ethics –“Is adultery wrong? One can only respond, ‘I don’t know. Maybe. Give me a case. Describe a real situation.’” Every situation is unique – all gray area

Spheres of Change Media –Radio – TV –Movies, Music, News Change Makers –Mayor of San Francisco –Rosie O’Donnell Slow erosion of attitudes

Necessity for Absolutes Gray Areas? Yes! –I don’t have all the answers –Gray is the combination of black and white –Remove black and white –Gray ceases to exist Everyone believes in some absolutes. –“There are no absolutes.” –Ask – “Are you absolutely sure?”

The Bible and Absolutes 10 Commandments –God gave some absolutes –God included punishment for violation Same in NT –Lists of absolute wrongs are given –1 Corinthians 6:9 –Galatians 5:19-21 –Revelation 21:8 –And many more

The Bible and Absolutes Principles behind the Law of God –God gave a perfect standard to live by –Sin is exposed as a danger to avoid –God set the bar high Our Values Are: –The ones we were taught –The ones we believe and accept –The ones we decide to keep

Jesus and Absolutes God Expects Perfection –Jesus was the only perfect man –Our perfection is through Him –On our own – all of us are lost Jesus died for our salvation –If we ever access and accept that salvation –There are rules to obey: Faith, Repentance, Baptism Continued faithfulness, prayer, study, etc.

Jesus and Absolutes Are you ABSOLUTELY SURE of your salvation? –Do you know that you would go to heaven when you die? –1 John 5:13 - These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life, and that you may continue to believe in the name of the Son of God. You can be sure today!