Times Are Changing and So Are Convictions

World Magazine reports notable Christian Leaders and pastors now playing in poker tournaments and a large major bible school now allowing gambling, smoking, and drinking.

Christians used to be known for discipline, dedication, sacrifice, holiness, modesty; now there seems to be little difference in lifestyle. Should there be a difference? The bible says, "If anyone is in Christ he is a new person; the old things gone the new has come" (2 Corinthians 5:17). New things such as new actions, new attitudes, and new associations. A good thing to remember before you place your bet, take a drink or huff and puff are the words of Paul, "All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable. All things are lawful, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own good, but that of his neighbor" (I Corinthians 10:23-24). Let's seek to draw people to Christ through the gospel and love, kindness and compassion not through a lifestyle or hobbies which may be questionable.