As the Church, unfortunately, we don't do the best job hanging out with those who are not like us (Christians). This was one of the myriad of issues Paul was dealing with in the church at Corinth. Much like them, we can be afraid that our witness, or Christ-likeness, might be ruined if we associate too deeply or too often with unbelievers. But for some unknown reason, many of us have no problem hanging out with a fellow churchgoer when they are living as sinfully as those in the world.
Jesus also dealt with people stuck in an overly religious mindset; those who judged him by who he invested in rather than by the fruit of righteousness he bore (Matthew 9:10-13). When we are controlled by this fear of being poorly judged by fellow Christians we become incapable of fulfilling our mission, being a light to those around us.
We were able to see the glory of Jesus because he came down to Earth instead of staying in Heaven. Many will never see Jesus because they won't step foot in the church and the Church (you and I) won't step foot into their lives. Let's not worry about what the overly religious think, and start acting like Jesus.
-RELEVANT MAGAZINE











