Some are recommending that since the standard has been degraded, we should change our definition of a kilogram to match the diminishing mass of the corroded cylinder. Change is inevitable they argue.
Others are proposing that we introduce a "floating standard" of the kilogram. They suggest that the measure of a kilogram should be "floated" over time to reflect the expectations of consumers, the preferences of producers, and the needs of the scientific community. Definitions are relative they urge.
And then there are those who maintain that under no circumstances should we alter our definition of a kilogram. They point to the fact that since we have an historic record of the standard, it would be improper and imprudent to redefine the kilogram. For them the standard is neither mutable nor relative. It is objective, unchanging, and definite.
Redefining the weight of a kilogram simply because one particular cylinder, albeit a very important cylinder, is no longer measuring up to the historic standard would be the height of folly.
But a greater folly, or travesty, is promoted by those who insist that we should revise the definition of a Christian or of Christianity, simply because some particular professing Christians are no longer measuring up to the standard so clearly spelled out in God's Word, and faithfully practiced by the faithful over the past twenty one centuries.
CHANGE IS INEVITABLE
Those who suppose that "change is inevitable," believe that accomondation with the world is not only expected but expedient. "Relevance" is their mantra. Like those who are calling for the redefinition of the kilogram based on the diminishing standard cylinder in France, they seem oblivious to the immediate and future consequences of accepting and promoting this falacious standard.
The danger inherit in this "change mentality," was dramatically illustrated this week when one Houston, Texas group advertised "Christian Pole Dancing" classes with discounts for those who bring Church bulletins to class. Then there is the specter of "Christian gangsta rap," "Christian night clubs," and "Christian pool parties." It all sounds so outlandish. Yet it is inevitable when change is considered progressive and consistency is thought to be regressive.
Nowhere is this more plainly and painfully evident than in our teaching regarding marriage. In our effort to be charitable to those who find themselves unhappily married we have attempted to redefine what our Lord defines in no uncertain terms: "But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife, and they two shall be one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together let not man put asunder." (Mark 10:6-10). It is amazing to see how many Christians who stridently insist on the separation of Church and State are perfectly willing to allow the state ot dissolve what God has called "one flesh."
Once we have rejected the Lord's instruction regarding the duration of marriage, every other aspect of marriage is open for redefinition. "What constitutes a marriage?" "Who is qualified or allowed to be married?"And even, "What is the purpose of marriage?" These questions are no longer answered by "What does the Bible say?" Instead, convenience, expedience, and lenience dictate our answers.
RELATIVE STANDARD
Those who suggest that a "relative standard"should apply to our definition of Christian are certainly in the majority. But as is often the case, the majority is wrong. "Wide is the gate, and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and many there be that go in thereat." (Matthew 7:13).
Rather than contending for a Christian culture that stands above all other cultures, they create a mutant form of the faith that inculcates the mores and customs of their culture into their version of Christianity. This explains the sorry statistics compiled by George Barna on the non existent differences between professing Christians and non-Christians when it comes to personal and public morality. It also explains why the teachings regarding gender, modesty, and separation from the world are most notable for their absence.
AN ABSOLUTE STANDARD
The faithful few who "contend for the faith once delivered unto the saints,"(Jude 3) and lift high the standard, are those who know that man cannot alter God's Word.
God says, "Be ye holy," (Leviticus 20:7, 1 Peter 1:15,16), so they "Pursue peace with all men and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord." (Hebrews 12:14).
They are more interested in bringing themselves into conformity with God's Word, than they are in adapting God's Word to conform with their lives. "Holiness unto the Lord!" is their watchword and song.
Messing with man's standard of weights and measurements will have no eternal consequence. But messing with God's standard of righteousness and holiness will undoubtedly deceive and damn multitudes.
"From this standard we will not depart, Holiness forevermore!
'Tis the song of the purified in heart, Holiness forevermore!
Holiness forevermore! Holiness forevermore!
We will sing it, shout it, preach it, and live it!
Holiness forevermore!
Haldor Lillenas 1885-1959
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