Neal Pollard
The latest twist in the latest Dennis Rodman saga, being admitted to rehab, may help explain what led to his state of mind in his recently-completed “diplomacy trip” to North Korea. Except for his most ardent supporters, people were left scratching their heads over his extremely friendly overtures and fawning over a regime recently described by Robert Marquand in this way: “The regime is repressive in a way unthinkable in the West. Loyalty to the Kim family is paramount. There is no exile movement, no dissent, no opposition newspaper. Access to South Korean media is outlawed, as is free travel. Famously repressive Cold War states like Albania and Romania were fabulous models of freedom compared to the North today” (via Christian Science Monitor, 1/19/14). Execution, torture, and starvation is a routine form of population control there, and this is a nation possessing nuclear weapons. Why Rodman would call its dictator a “beloved friend” and a “very good guy” is beyond baffling. He seems out of touch with reality.
The Bible warns the Christian against forging associations that hurt the cause of Christ. In 2 Corinthians 6:14-18, Paul addresses the matter of being “bound together with unbelievers.” Notice what the text reveals.
THE EXHORTATION (14). He writes, “Do not be bound together with unbelievers.” Paul found this matter both urgent and important. Who we connect ourselves with makes a difference.
THE EXPLANATION (14-16). Paul says such fellowship is spiritually irrational, showing examples of how non-sensical it is. He also says such fellowship disregards the fact that we are God’s temple. We cannot be flippant about that!
THE EVIDENCE (16-17). Paul cites at least six different Old Testament passages, proof for his point of the destructiveness of these evil associations (Ex. 29:45, Lev. 26:12; Jer. 31:1; Ezek. 37:27; Ex. 25:8; Isa. 52:11). By doing this, Paul shows that this is a concept—avoiding fellowship with unbelievers—proven by Scripture.
THE ENRICHMENT (18). When we avoid unrighteous fellowship, we help open the door to fellowship with God. He welcomes us, adopts us, and forges relationship with us. The choice of enjoying fellowship with God or the unbeliever seems clear and easy.
I cannot understand guys like Mr. Rodman. He may be seeking attention. His motives may never be known. Yet, when it comes to how we as Christians conduct ourselves with the world, we are going to have the spiritual insight to choose wisely!
