“What Right Have You?”
God has some words for the wicked: “What right have you to declare My statutes, or take My covenant in your mouth, seeing you hate instruction and cast My words behind you?” (Ps. 50:16-17) Ordinarily, we understand the reason God pronounces a condemnation on sin, but this passage is a little different. Apparently, some have taken it upon themselves to teach His statutes to others. What could be wrong with that? Some seemed to be familiar enough with His covenant to communicate it to others—maybe even effectively. What can the problem be, and why does God call them, of all things, wicked?
The answer is that they neither trusted in God or believed the very words they were teaching? What? How is that possible? They may have loudly proclaimed, “Thou shalt not steal!” But they did not mind having fellowship with a thief, even consenting with what he is doing (v. 18). Furthermore, these men partook with adulterers, which seems to imply their participation. How interesting to commit the sin all the while teaching publicly, “You shall not commit adultery.” They also used their mouths for evil (gossip?), and they frequently deceived people (v. 19). Some would slander their own brothers (v. 20). No wonder they are described as casting God’s word behind them.
Why would these men be such hypocrites to teach God’s Word publicly but exhibit such awful behavior privately? Could it be they were teaching just for money? Some televangelists certainly seem to fall in this category. They might present a wonderful lesson against covetousness and in favor of generosity—right before attempting to bilk their studio and home audiences out of as much money as they can by offering them “prayer rugs” or water from the Sea of Galilee. Do they believe the Bible at all, or are they just using religion to enrich themselves?
How about some of our own preachers? Would they still be preaching if they did not receive the good salaries they enjoy? This may sound strange coming from your congenial editor, who greatly appreciates brethren’s generosity. But neither he nor many other older brethren have always enjoyed the benefits now available. In fact, the book, Arkansas Angels, described many who spent years preaching for inadequate remuneration. But many of today’s elders are offering salaries approaching or exceeding $100.000. Such sums may attract men who are simply looking for a career. Such men may speak one thing and practice another. If he works with a liberal congregation, they may not even be allowed to speak the truth! Perhaps other reasons exist for the kind of behavior described in Psalm 50:16-20, but one thing is certain: God will not tolerate it! Anyone who does not believe that the Word of God is truth (and inspired) should find other “employment” immediately rather than risk God’s condemnation.