Chapter 147—Irreligious Visitors
It is not safe for Christians to choose the society of those who have
no connection with God, and whose course is displeasing to Him. Yet
how many professed Christians venture upon the forbidden ground.
Many invite to their homes relatives who are vain, trifling, and un-
godly; and often the example and influence of these irreligious visitors
produce lasting impressions upon the minds of the children in the
household. The influence thus exerted is similar to that which resulted
from the association of the Hebrews with the godless Canaanites....
Many feel that they must make some concessions to please their
irreligious relatives and friends. As it is not always easy to draw the
line, one concession prepares the way for another, until those who
were once true followers of Christ are in life and character conformed
to the customs of the world. The connection with God is broken. They
are Christians in name only. When the test hour comes, then their
hope is seen to be without foundation. They have sold themselves and
their children to the enemy. They have dishonored God, and in the
revelation of His righteous judgments, they will reap what they have
sown. Christ will say to them, as He said to ancient Israel, “Ye have
not obeyed My voice. Why have ye done this?”—
The Signs of the
Times, June 2, 1881
. (434)
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