by Kevin Williams

Walnut Grove church of Christ, Benton, KY

 

If I Go to the dance...

... will I have fun?

Answer: Probably so, since so many people seem to enjoy doing it. But, hopefully, your parents have given you Christian training that will cause it to offend your conscience! (Heb 11:24,25).

...will I be accepted by others?

Answer: Probably so, since your friends are usually those with whom you do things. But, hopefully, you'll see that being accepted with your friends is not always the thing that always matters the most! (Ex 23:2).

...will I be popular?

Answer: Probably so, since the popular ones are usually at the dance. But, hopefully, you'll understand that when you try to be popular you quit being yourself and you'll do things that normally you would not do! (1 Cor 15:33).

...will I make my parents proud?

Answer: Probably so, since your parents have allowed you to go. But, hopefully, you will have parents that love you enough to say "no" to your going! Then, you make them proud by respecting their decision! (Eph 6:1-3).

...will I avoid having to explain why I don't believe in it?

Answer: Probably so, since your actions are different from your beliefs. But, hopefully, you will have enough conviction as a Christian to stand for what your believe! (Eph 6:11).

...will I help others?

Answer: Probably so, since you are helping to support the dance. But, hopefully, you will see that you are really hurting others spiritually! Dancing does not produce pure thoughts! (Phil 4:8).

...will I keep others from talking about me?

Answer: Probably so, since the ones that are talked about are the ones who are brave enough not to go. But, hopefully, you have grown mature enough to see that when others talk about you, normally they are guilty of the wrong! (James 2:7).

...will I please God?

Answer: Probably so, depending on which G(g)od you are talking about. No doubt you will please the gods of lust, rebellion, evil influence, and evil companionship. But, hopefully, you can see that the God of heaven is never pleased when His children help the cause of Satan! (Mat 12:30).

...will I help myself?

Answer: Probably so, since one who goes to a dance is seeking self-satisfaction. But, hopefully, you are faithful enough to understand that self-satisfaction seldom lends us a helping hand! (Mat 6:33).

...will it be better not to participate?

Answer: Probably so, since dancing causes improper thoughts and desires. But, hopefully, you will care enough about your influence as a Christian to stay away from places that are, by their very purpose, designed to contribute to immorality! (Mat 5:16).

So, the question comes to you: Will you go to the dance?