Deuteronomy 22:9-11 -

Evil associations to be avoided.

"The essence of the crime ( Zephaniah 1:8 ) consisted, not in wearing a woolen and linen robe, but in having it in a particular form according to a favorite superstition of ancient idolatries" (Le Deuteronomy 19:19 ). So also as to sowing with divers seeds; it was a superstitious custom of the idolaters, and hence it is to be avoided. Note: Evil associations may make it wrong to follow or observe that which is in itself harmless. With the principle which underlies this passage thus stated, compare 1 Corinthians 10:23 to end.

I. God, having called his people out of the world, would have them distinct from the world.

II. In carrying out this distinction in practice, Christians are bound to regard the influence which their practice will have upon others, as well as the practice itself.

III. It is quite possible that (as in the case of eating meats offered to idols) there may be rites, customs, habits, in which this or that Christian could indulge without injury to himself, and yet which, owing to the force of public sentiment and opinion, would tell prejudicially upon him, and lower his influence for good.

IV. When such is the case, he is to take the higher ground, not shrinking from being deemed puritanical—and to abstain not only from that which is wrong in itself, but from much which, owing to evil associations, has about it a suspicious look of worldliness and self-indulgence.

HOMILIES BY J. ORR