Should Christians Tolerate Evil?
No. Christians are not called to tolerate evil. The idea of tolerance has been twisted to discourage believers from speaking against wrongdoing, even when it conflicts with God’s truth. Some argue that we should remain silent on issues like same-sex marriage or ungodly practices within the Church, claiming that “God loves everyone.” While God’s love is infinite, His justice and holiness demand action against sin, not passive acceptance. True love does not condone behaviour that opposes moral truth. Instead, Christians are called to confront evil and uphold righteousness.
Jesus Set the Example
Jesus never turned a blind eye to evil. His life demonstrates that confronting sin and wrongdoing is an act of both love and justice. Let’s look at how Jesus dealt with evil:
Calling Out Hypocrisy
Jesus exposed the hypocrisy of the religious leaders of His time, calling them “whitewashed tombs” and “blind guides” (Matthew 23:27-28). He openly criticised their outward displays of righteousness while revealing their hidden corruption.
Reflection:
Which leaders or institutions today demonstrate hypocrisy? Do we remain silent out of fear or complacency?
Cleansing the Temple
When Jesus saw the temple being misused for greed and exploitation, He acted decisively. Overturning tables and driving out money changers, He declared, “My house shall be called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves” (Matthew 21:13). His bold actions left no doubt—He would not tolerate the desecration of sacred spaces.
Reflection:
How many places of worship have turned into marketplaces, prioritizing profit over prayer? Do we challenge this misuse?
Addressing Sin Directly
When faced with sin, Jesus showed grace but demanded repentance. To the woman caught in adultery, He said, “Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (John 8:11). While offering her forgiveness, He firmly called for transformation, refusing to excuse her wrongdoing.
Reflection:
How often do we witness sin in others but stay silent to avoid confrontation? Is our silence enabling sin to thrive?
What This Means for Us
Evil thrives when it is tolerated, like weeds in an untended garden. Christians must have the courage, clarity, and wisdom to confront it. Ignoring or justifying evil is not an option for those who follow Christ.
Jesus taught that fighting evil requires boldness and wisdom: “Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16). This means being shrewd and discerning, yet acting with grace and humility.
- Serpents symbolise wisdom—being strategic, alert, and intentional.
- Doves represent innocence—avoiding malice or aggression, even while confronting wrongs.
A Call to Action
stand agaist evil
Christianity does not promote passive tolerance. Faith demands action, and love demands accountability. Standing against evil is not self-righteousness—it is aligning with God’s higher moral standard.
Let us reject evil in all its forms and work toward a world that reflects God’s justice and righteousness. We are called to be the light in darkness and the salt of the earth, preserving truth and exposing evil.
“Go, and sin no more.” — Jesus (John 8:11)
Here are three ordinary individuals from history who stood firmly against evil, demonstrating that anyone can make a difference when they confront wrongdoing with courage and conviction:
Three ordinary individuals from history who stood firmly against evil, demonstrating that anyone can make a difference when they confront wrongdoing with courage and conviction:
1. Dietrich Bonhoeffer (1906–1945)
Stand Against: Nazi Oppression
Bonhoeffer, a German pastor and theologian, opposed Adolf Hitler and the Nazi regime during World War II. Despite the personal risk, he spoke out against the persecution of Jews and the moral compromises of the German Church under Nazi influence. Bonhoeffer joined the resistance, participating in efforts to undermine the regime, and was eventually executed for his role. About Dietrich
Lesson: Even when facing overwhelming evil, standing for truth and righteousness may cost much but leaves an enduring legacy of courage.
2. Rosa Parks (1913–2005)
Stand Against: Racial Segregation
Rosa Parks was an African American seamstress who, through a simple yet profound act of defiance, refused to give up her seat to a white man on a segregated bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955. Her quiet resistance became a powerful catalyst for the Civil Rights Movement, sparking protests that led to lasting social change. About Rosa
Lesson: Small acts of courage can ignite a movement against systemic injustice, proving that even the “ordinary” can achieve extraordinary change.
3. William Wilberforce (1759–1833)
Stand Against: Slavery
Wilberforce, a British politician and devout Christian, dedicated his life to the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. Despite facing fierce opposition and numerous setbacks, he persevered for decades, ultimately leading to the passage of the Slave Trade Act in 1807 and later the abolition of slavery throughout the British Empire. About William
Lesson: Persistent action fueled by moral conviction can dismantle even deeply entrenched systems of evil.
These 3 individuals remind us that standing against evil does not require extraordinary status, only extraordinary courage and conviction.