Bad Company Corrupts Christian Conduct

Preview: A lesson on choosing the company we keep.


Scripture Reading: Psalm 1:1-6.

Memory Verse: Psalm 3:1.

1. What do the foregoing Scriptures teach us about choosing friends?
2. Can we fellowship with foolish people and expect to be wise? Proverbs 13:1, Proverbs 14:7-9, Proverbs 14:24 & Proverbs 14:33.
3. Can Christians fellowship with sinners and not compromise with sin? Proverbs 1:10-16 & Proverbs 4:10-19.
4. Did God warn Israel of this danger? Deuteronomy 7:1-4, I Kings 11:1-2, I Kings 11:6 & Amos 3:3.
Note: There are rare exceptions when evil associates do not corrupt good people. We know that Jesus ate with sinners. He sought out the woman of Samaria who was a lady with a reputation. God directed the young men of Israel to go to the house of Rahab the harlot when they went to Canaan as spies, but a careful study of these stories will reveal that God already knew their hearts. They responded to God’s message when they heard it.
5. What are Christians advised to do for protection when they are compelled to work with and witness to sinners? Proverbs 3:1-8 & Proverbs 3:26.
Note: Many times Christians have no choice about their associates. If we will get closer to God, He directs and protects His people.
6. What should we do when we have a choice? II Corinthians 6:16-18.
7. What reason did Paul give for separating our social life from unbelievers? II Corinthians 6:14-15.
8. What danger awaits good men who may think that they can associate with sinful women? Proverbs 7:6-27.
Note: Even Christian ministers and counselors should work in pairs. That was the way Jesus trained His disciples. This may protect God’s workers from the appearance of evil and temptation.
9. What should Christians do instead of seeking a relationship with sinners? Ephesians 4:1-3, Ephesians 4:14-15, Ephesians 4:17-24 & Ephesians 5:1-4.
10. How important is it that saints fellowship with each other? Ephesians 2:19-22, Hebrews 10:24-26 & I John 1:5-7.
Note: God’s people are well advised not to fellowship with sinners. On the other hand, it is just as essential to fellowship with the saints often, in order to encourage and strengthen each other spiritually.