It has been said that a text lifted out of context, and thus misapplied, becomes a pretext. This saying is true. A request is made to devote a small space in these columns to an examination of such misuses of Bible texts.

"Abstain from all appearance of evil" (I Thess. 5:22). How often this passage is quoted in order to condemn some practice as evil! With confidence and often vehemence many thus condemn some pet peeve in others. But this verse does not identify the evil; it tells what to do with what is proved to be evil by other scriptures treating of the matter in question. Paul even enjoins this requirement in this same context (v. 20). (See I Jn. 4:6). Actually this error is a species of false logic called "begging the question," or assuming to be proved what must be proved. Let us examine it more closely.

I. "Quench not the Spirit" (v. 19). Do not stifle or suppress what the Spirit has revealed (by the apostles).

2. "Despise not prophesying" (v. 20). To make of no account the instructions and explanations given by revelation.

3. "Prove all things" (v. 21a). Test all things whether in doctrine, worship or practice by the revealed word of the Spirit treating of those matters.

4. "Hold fast that which is good" (v. 21b). Retain that which is thus proved to be scriptural. Do not give it up.

5. "Abstain from all appearance of evil" (v. 22). Abstain from everything thus not endorsed by the Holy Scriptures or which is proved unscriptural.

Let it be noted that every verb used by Paul in this passage is in the imperative mood suggesting these are commands. Quite different is God's view and that of some brethren who say not to examine, prove or test many things!

God gave us a great text, so let us not make it a pretext.

Truth Magazine VIII: 12, p. 11 September 1964