Bible Basics

Right and Wrong

Is there a “right” and a “wrong?”  I expect most would say that there is.  But who determines what’s “right” and what’s “wrong?”  What is the standard by which such is established? Jeremiah said, “It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps” (Jer. 10:23).  Furthermore, the wise man said, “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Prov. 14:12).  Clearly man does not set the standard. But there is a standard by which “right” and “wrong” are established.  There is “truth” beyond which is “error;” things authorized, beyond which are things unauthorized. Jesus said, “All authority hath been given unto me in heaven and on earth” (Matt. 28:18).   It’s important to realize that since God is the final authority His revelation of “truth and right” cannot be subject to man’s feeling or approval.  The truth of God is not affected by what man “thinks” about it. This does not, however, relieve man of the responsibility to know and understand that truth.  Hence, Paul says, “Give diligence to present thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, handling aright the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15). When approached objectively, it’s safe to assume that God made his truth understandable to His creatures. After all who made man’s mind?

                                                                                                               -- Clark Dugger

Bible Basics