IN DEFENSE OF CRIMINALS? By Major Frank Materu
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Key Scripture: Isaiah 5:20 “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.”
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Introduction
In today’s generation, many who claim to follow God have aligned themselves with wickedness, rebellion, and uncleanliness. Instead of standing with righteousness, they choose to defend sin, thus opposing God. This message challenges believers to examine their loyalties and ensure that their alignment is with God, not with the false compassion and humanistic values of the world. It is a call to embrace the true judgment and righteousness of God.
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God’s Call to Alignment
Throughout Scripture, God repeatedly calls His people to align with Him and His righteousness. Amos 3:3 asks, “Can two walk together, except they be agreed?” Alignment with God means rejecting the corruption and rebellion of the world and walking in obedience to His lordship. When believers refuse to subject themselves to God, they open themselves up to demonic influence and deception. God’s people must prioritize pleasing Him above all else.
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The Danger of False Compassion
False compassion is a grave danger to believers in this era. It is the misguided attempt to defend or excuse sin under the guise of love or sympathy. Proverbs 17:15 declares, “He who justifies the wicked and he who condemns the righteous are both alike an abomination to the Lord.” False compassion aligns individuals with wickedness rather than standing firm on God’s truth. It deceives people into thinking they can serve both the world and God simultaneously, which is impossible.
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God’s Righteous Judgment
God is a just judge, and His judgments are always righteous. When He brings wrath, fury, and indignation against sin, it is not out of cruelty but out of divine justice. Hebrews 10:30-31 reminds us, “For we know him who said, ‘Vengeance is mine; I will repay.’ And again, ‘The Lord will judge his people.’ It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.” Rejoicing in God’s judgments is an acknowledgment of His sovereignty and justice. Believers are called to trust His ways, even when they may not understand them fully.
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The Consequences of Aligning with Evil
When believers align themselves with the wicked, they become partakers of their judgment. God’s wrath is poured out on those who refuse to repent and continue in sin. 2 Corinthians 6:14-15 warns, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness?” Aligning with evil undermines God’s righteousness and invites His discipline.
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Standing Firm Against Worldly Opinions
The world promotes humanistic values and defends wickedness under the pretense of tolerance and love. However, God’s people are called to stand firm in His truth. Romans 12:2 instructs, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Believers must reject the world’s opinions and hold fast to God’s Word.
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Summary
The message reminds us of the importance of aligning ourselves with God and His righteousness. False compassion and humanistic ideologies can easily lead believers astray, causing them to defend and excuse sin. God’s judgments are just, and He calls His people to trust Him, even when the world opposes His ways.
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Conclusion
In a generation that calls evil good and good evil, believers must stand unwaveringly on God’s truth. Alignment with God requires rejecting the world’s values and embracing His righteousness. His judgments are an act of mercy, intended to bring repentance and redemption to those willing to turn from their wicked ways.
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Call to Action
Examine your alignment today. Are you standing with God, or have you unknowingly sided with wickedness through false compassion or worldly values? Seek God’s guidance and align yourself fully with His will. Stand firm in His truth, and do not be swayed by the opinions of the world.
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Final Word of Encouragement
Remember, God is just and righteous in all His ways. Trust in His judgments and rejoice in His sovereignty. As you align yourself with Him, He will guide you in truth and lead you into His eternal purposes. Be strong and courageous, for the Lord your God is with you always. Joshua 1:9