Why would someone say that people who are not in covenant with Yahweh are not held to the same standard as those who are? I understand that He expects us who are committed to Him to act differently than those who give Him no place in their lives, but are they not held to that standard, too?

 

Great Question!  Scripture is clear that all mankind will answer to YHWH, and He has the same instructions for all who desire to be in covenant with Him. Here are a few verses where we see this:

Exodus 12:49

“The same law shall apply to both the native and the foreigner who resides among you.”

Leviticus 24:22

“You are to have the same standard of law for the foreign resident and the native; for I am the LORD your God.’ ”

Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

“When all has been heard, the conclusion of the matter is this: Fear God and keep His commandments, because this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, along with every hidden thing, whether good or evil.”

2 Corinthians 5:10

“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.”

Hebrews 4:13

“Nothing in all creation is hidden from God’s sight; everything is uncovered and exposed before the eyes of Him to whom we must give account.”

 

Someone who is not in a covenantal relationship with the Almighty isn’t going to understand or value the Father’s guidelines for how they live or the choices they make. They aren’t likely to be studying scripture or spending time in prayer. They will also be without the benefit of the Holy Spirit which both helps teach us and hold us accountable to the Word. Considering this, it would be unreasonable of us, as believers, to expect to see someone not in covenant with YHWH exhibiting the fruits of the spirit. We can’t realistically hold them to the same standards we would a fellow believer.

 

We have the opportunity to be a witness through how we interact with our neighbor who is not yet a member of the Father’s family. We should be demonstrating the fruits of love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, in hopes of being a light and planting a seed. Just as the Father is long suffering with us, we should endeavor to extend His mercy and grace to others in the hopes that they, too, will come to repentance.

 

I hope this helps!

May YHWH bless you,

About the Seeking Scripture Team: We are a group of believers from all walks of the faith, saved by grace alone through faith in our Messiah. While we are of one accord in many things, we are all works in progress and lifelong learners. Therefore the opinions of one may not always represent the opinions of all.

Christy Howlett
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