Nehemiah chapter 10:31 is where we left off last week. It is in the middle of a context dealing with reforms under Ezra and Nehemiah. A recounting of their history (chapter 9) showed how God was so faithful through the generations, while His people were often unfaithful. Chapter 10 shows the leaders taking an oath and putting their names to reform in the day-to-day of their conduct.

The first of the matters addressed was their separation from dealings with the world at large from commerce to relationships. The ones after that dealt with upkeep and support of the temple. (10:30-39)

The rest of the book's focus is on the institutional and national reforms needed after so much neglect. As I read this I couldn't help but notice something about modern church life circa 2015

So many people I have known over the years, who had always been pillars are now compromising. It grieves me to see brothers and sister seemingly comfortable mixing a little worldliness with their faith. Things they would never participate in are now common and even celebrated. Apathy was certainly at the core of Israel's repeated distress, and now it seems like the church is following that sad trend.

God hates worldliness and compromise, it is that simple. Not only because of the outcomes but because of the numbness it creates. It is as though many are hunkering down, not looking for Jesus' soon return and now a subtle truce with the world has taken root.

Perhaps more study of The New Testament would cause some, at least, to see what happens when a little worldliness inevitably becomes too much. History is wonderful, for those who listen to its lessons.
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