Resources/Articles
Dangers Of Compromise
Pharaoh made an effort toward compromise with Moses in letting the Israelites go, but not too far away. The other offers made by Pharaoh included only a three days’ journey, leave their families behind, or leave their livestock behind (Exodus 8:25-28; 10:8-11; 24-26). His efforts failed, but Moses did not compromise with any of his offers.
What is wrong with compromise? Some of the continuing struggles between nations, states, classes, races, and political parties exist because no one seems to let either side get all it wants. How will there be peace and production if no one is willing to yield to the other person’s point of view? It seems to be a good way to settle some of our differences.
Will compromise in religion be acceptable to God? Some seem to think the only way we can be united before God is to let go of some of our beliefs. One man’s interpretation holds as much weight as another’s. What is wrong with divorce? What harm is there in viewing corrupted programs that promote homosexuality and drinking? Where is the evil with salvation by a prayer of faith and repentance?
If compromise is a trait of integrity and gentleness, then why did the Bereans examine the scripture in light of what was taught (Acts 17:11)? What is the need for study and knowledge (2 Timothy 2:15; 2 Peter 3:18) if every man is justified in his own interpretation? There is a reason for concern about compromise when worldly men continually place their own construction on the words of God and come away saying we need to “examine these issues differently than people did in the past.”
Moses is an example to every Christian who questions the teaching of truth. A careful examination needs to be given to the messages people in other religions declare today (1 John 4:1). We must not be gullible enough to believe everything we hear. There cannot be a compromise of morality. If it is wrong, then it stays wrong and must be avoided. There must be no compromise of doctrine. It is either true or false. There is no such thing as “half a truth.” Our knowledge of truth prevents false ways (Psalm 119:104). There must be no compromise with our personal duty as Christians. We either obey or we disobey. Not obeying is disobedience. We do not need to feel the consequences of sin to see the importance of obedience. His laws are understandable (Ephesians 5:17). It is never right to give up the smallest matter of truth or feel the slightest infraction of God’s commands will be overlooked.
