By Lewis Willis
The Akron Beacon Journal (2-17-92) printed a notice that ABC Television had rejected an idea for a prime-time police drama series which would be R-rated because of its scenes of nudity. The series was suggested by Steven Bochco. Bochco said the proposal “scared them.” He proposed the series to network brass “to combat the networks ever-growing audience losses to cable.” His reasoning was “people are sure spending less time watching network television.”
Obviously, Bochco believes that nude scenes will bring people back to the networks. You know, he is probably right! And, that is what is so frightening about his proposal. Wickedness abounds in our beloved nation! There seems to be no end to it. As Paul said, “But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse, deceiving, and being deceived” (2 Tim. 3:13). As bad as it is, however, there is nothing “new” in this. Notice below the description by Paul of the sins of the Gentiles in his day (Rom. I:18-32). Also, notice how the sin progressed and worsened. This is what happened to the Gentiles:
“They glorified him not as God. .
“Neither were thankful. . .
“Became vain in their imaginations. . .
“Their foolish heart was darkened. .
“Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools.. “Changed the glory of the uncorruptible God. . .”
“God also gave them up. .
“To uncleanness. . “
“Through the lust of their own hearts.
“To dishonour their bodies. . “
“Changed the truth of God into a lie.
“Worshipped and served the creature more than the Creator. . . “
“For this cause God gave them up. .
“Unto vile affections. . .”
“Their women did change the natural use. . .
“Men. . .burned in their lust. . .men with men. “Did not like to retain God in their knowledge. . “God gave them over. . .
“To a reprobate mind. . .
“To do those things which are not convenient. .
“Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness, full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity, whisperers, backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents, without understanding, covenant breakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful, . . . not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.”
It is evident that the Gentiles were progressing in sin, while falling farther and farther away from God. We seem to be no different. America is advised to hear this warning from Solomon in Proverbs 14:34: “Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people.”
Guardian of Truth XXXVII: 14 p. 5
July 15, 1993