Be Ye Separate

Be Ye Seperate !

Ezra 9:1-4 NKJV

[1] When these things were done, the leaders came to me, saying, “The people of Israel and the priests and the Levites have not separated themselves from the peoples of the lands, with respect to the abominations of the Canaanites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Jebusites, the Ammonites, the Moabites, the Egyptians, and the Amorites. [2] For they have taken some of their daughters as wives for themselves and their sons, so that the holy seed is mixed with the peoples of those lands. Indeed, the hand of the leaders and rulers has been foremost in this trespass.” [3] So when I heard this thing, I tore my garment and my robe, and plucked out some of the hair of my head and beard, and sat down astonished. [4] Then everyone who trembled at the words of the God of Israel assembled to me, because of the transgression of those who had been carried away captive, and I sat astonished until the evening sacrifice.

     This is my Ai report on the doctrine of separation."....(It) emphasizes the importance of setting oneself apart from sin, worldly influences, and false teachings to live a life pleasing to God. This doctrine is not about isolation but about discerning between good and evil and actively choosing to align oneself with God's truth". Separation is not a New Testament development. It's been part of effective relationship with God.

    Faith Community Church explains it further: " The principle of separation calls disciples of Jesus to use godly wisdom to see what is corrupt or polluted and to separate it from what is truth. Just as you wouldn’t drink water that you know has been contaminated by sewage, separate what is morally corrupt from your life as well". With this background, you will understand Ezra's reaction when he was informed of the life patterns of some returnees. It is for the sake of corruption that their parents were scattered. Now, it appears that they were back at it.

    As far as marriage is concerned, here are a few Biblical injunctions: 2 Cor. 6:14-18; 1 Cor. 5:11; Mat 25:32-46. We could go on drawing other examples from the old testament as well. Separation is a process of personal transformation, moving away from sin and unto holiness. It requires carefully evaluating the practices of self and others to ensure they align with word of God. Separation is not a negotiable option. The word is: be ye seperate. Good morning.