Honorable Reasons
by RIH
And Satan commanded his minions, “Go forth through out the world and give men ‘honorable’ reasons that they might be blinded and thereby justify foolish thoughts and acts, even wicked and unrighteous deeds.” And to the saints he whispered ‘honorable reasons’ that they might deceive themselves and vex the Lord. Book of Demons 13:2-4.
Those who have read, heard, or been part of scriptural debates - often find it difficult to understand how sincere and honest men could accept and defend (even with scripture) what God does not authorize. Yet, underlying all of these unauthorized works are rarely wicked or selfish intents. Rather, what lies underneath are intents that are honorable – and from them spring forth honorable reasons and blindness. Compassion, concern, duty, example, unselfishness, sacrifice, these and more are the foundation stones for honorable reasons. However, just as honorable reasons can raise men to great heights in acts of service and righteousness – they can as easily deceive men to commit acts foolish and wicked.
A wise man was once asked, “Can evil come from good?” He replied, “Yes, and most often when there are honorable reasons.” Consider:
Pharaoh continued to reject the evidence presented by Moses, even after recognizing that a power greater than he or his gods was in control. No doubt he had honorable reasons: the empire would be weakened – enemies might attack, his son would inherit a lesser throne, the glory and honor of Egypt was to be considered. Saul and his army certainly had honorable reasons for their actions: a public sacrifice to glorify and honor God and the victory He had given. Parade the defeated king as proof and a warning to other enemies. Perhaps David also had honorable reasons regarding Uriah: protect the life of Bath-Sheba and the unborn child, avoid scandal, concern for morale (after all the army was at war). Years ago a small congregation was almost torn apart as a result of one man’s honorable reasons. Ignoring the wisdom of Matthew 18:15, he began to privately express (gossip) to others his concern regarding what he erroneously thought was the new preacher’s position on a question of scripture. His honorable reasons: concern for the Lord’s church, the brethren and scriptural purity.
We recognize and understand the flaw in these honorable reasons. We’ve read, been taught and studied the flaws in various philosophies and doctrines. We know that, even though difficult at times, we must first go to those about whom we have doubt. And we can clearly see the flaw in the honorable reasons of Pharaoh, Saul and David. [“Obedience is better than sacrifice.”] It is with our own honorable reasons where stumbling blocks often rise in the path of service we follow. The emotions of nobility, sincerity and selflessness we attach to our honorable reasons all to often over ride judgment and reason.
Compassion, mercy, love, service are truly honorable reasons difficult to argue against. Expediency and necessity are likewise honorable reasons as are concern for purity and steadfastness of the brethren. However, honorable reasons sometime lead sincere men to choose unwisely – even to violate the commandments of God.
The most honorable of reasons will matter little if, in that day, we find ourselves hearing the words of Matthew 7:23 ring in our ears.
A wise man once said, “Seek knowledge, for from it will come understanding. Seek understanding, for from it will come wisdom. Seek wisdom, that you may avoid foolishness.” And from Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” Is it not ironic that the greatest book of wisdom is so rarely read.
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