The Lesser Evil

“Why not say—as some slanderously claim that we say—”Let us do evil that good may result”? Their condemnation is just!”
– Words of the Apostle Paul, Romans 3:18, New Testament.

Some in the early church believed that their sins had been and would always be forgiven so that they could take part in the mission of God to love the world and call the world to God’s love. However, some Christians got confused. They were living in hate and unforgiveness, doing bad stuff and thinking God would protect them. Just like today.

A group of Jewish-Christians (Jews who followed Jesus) argued with this theology, saying it meant that the people of God could take part in whatever evil they wanted and be immune from consequences because God would always protect them.

Paul answers their condemnation in the section of verses above. He says these Jewish-Christians are right! When Christians take part in evil, they will suffer the consequences. For instance, if someone breaks the law, they will be held accountable. If someone takes part in genocide, they will be held accountable. God is not required to break into our world and protect us from the evil we take part in. God, more times than not, will let us suffer the consequences. Paul believed this teaching came to him through the Holy Spirit, and I believe it too. 

Humanity cannot take part in evil and expect good to come from our participation.

It is important to note Paul isn’t talking about what happens in eternity (heaven or hell). He is talking about life on earth today. Humanity will suffer the consequences of bad decision. For instance, poison the earth, we will suffer climate change.

Can I vote for someone who encouraged his followers to kill elected officials on January 6th? No! By voting for him, I would take part in this evil.

Can I vote for someone who sends guns to a genocide? No! By voting for him, I would take part in this evil.

Followers of Jesus don’t have the luxury of voting for the lesser of evils. We are not doing the work of God when we vote for evil. We are not showing the world that God loves them. We are not acting in the faith that love can rule the earth. Instead we are participating in evil. We are called to choose good. We are called to speak out against evil.

Good may not win. But God doesn’t ask us to win. God asks for our faithfulness.