In today’s world, believers often face the temptation to compromise and choose the “lesser of two evils” for practical reasons. However, as followers of Y’shu’ah, we are called to stand firmly for righteousness, aligning our choices with God’s Word and holiness, rather than rationalizing any form of sin. Scripture urges us to walk in unwavering obedience, resisting all evil and choosing the path of integrity. By seeking the most righteous choice in every situation, we bear witness to God’s truth, becoming lights in the darkness and honoring our call to be set apart for His glory. True faith requires trust in God’s wisdom, choosing righteousness over compromise, and reflecting His holiness in every aspect of our lives. The concept of choosing "the lesser of two evils" is often used in difficult ethical situations where both choices seem morally wrong or undesirable, yet one option appears less harmful than the other. This idea suggests that in certain situations, one should choose the option that does the least harm, even if it is still wrong. However, the notion of compromising moral standards to avoid a worse outcome is not a biblical principle, and Scripture provides strong guidance against endorsing evil of any kind.
1. Defining “The Lesser of Two Evils” in a Biblical Context
Common Understanding: In modern society, choosing the lesser of two evils means opting for an imperfect choice to prevent a greater harm. This can range from ethical dilemmas in leadership, business, or personal life where there is no clear “good” option.
Biblical Perspective: The Bible, however, upholds a standard of holiness and obedience that does not support the idea of doing wrong for the sake of a better outcome. As Paul teaches in Romans 6:1-2, “Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means!” This verse warns against willfully choosing sin, even under the justification that a “lesser sin” is more acceptable than a “greater sin.”
2. Biblical Standard of Good and Evil
Scripture is clear that God defines what is good and what is evil. His commandments are the ultimate moral standard, and He expects His people to avoid all forms of evil.
Isaiah 5:20 warns against moral compromise: “Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil.” God’s standard is absolute, meaning that compromising with evil, even for what seems like a “good” reason, is condemned in Scripture.
1 Thessalonians 5:22 states, “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” This includes both outright sin and any compromise that might lead toward sin. The expectation is clear: believers are to maintain a life of holiness that reflects God’s own character, not rationalize sin as the “better” option.
3. Examples in Scripture: Choosing Righteousness Over Compromise
Joseph and Potiphar’s Wife (Genesis 39): Joseph faced the temptation to sin with Potiphar’s wife. He could have chosen what seemed like a “lesser evil” by staying silent or minimizing his resistance to avoid conflict. Instead, he firmly resisted sin altogether, saying, “How then can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” Joseph’s choice to uphold righteousness over personal safety or gain exemplifies the biblical call to avoid even the appearance of sin.
Daniel’s Refusal to Compromise (Daniel 6): When Daniel was forbidden to pray to God, he faced the choice to either disobey God or face the lions’ den. Rather than choosing the “lesser evil” of compromising his faith to avoid danger, Daniel chose to uphold his commitment to God’s law. His faithfulness, even at great risk, demonstrated a refusal to compromise God’s standard for any reason.
4. Why Choosing “The Lesser of Two Evils” Is Not Biblical
Compromise Breeds Sin: The Bible shows that tolerating any level of evil or disobedience can lead to further sin. The story of Saul in 1 Samuel 15 illustrates this. Saul was instructed to destroy everything of the Amalekites but compromised by sparing the best livestock. This “lesser evil” of disobedience ultimately cost Saul his kingship and favor with God. Partial obedience or compromise is not true obedience to God.
God’s Absolute Standard: Scripture emphasizes that God is holy and calls His people to live by His perfect standard. Leviticus 19:2 commands, “Be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy.” In the New Testament, 1 Peter 1:16 echoes this, showing that God’s requirement for holiness is consistent. God does not ask His people to choose the lesser of two evils but to obey Him fully, rejecting evil in all its forms.
Faith Over Fear of Consequences: Choosing the lesser evil often stems from fear of negative consequences. However, Scripture encourages believers to trust God’s provision and sovereignty instead of taking matters into their own hands. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” Relying on human reasoning instead of God’s commands undermines faith and can lead to compromised choices.
5. Biblical Wisdom for Making Righteous Choices
Seek God’s Guidance: When facing difficult decisions, believers are called to seek God’s wisdom and direction rather than leaning on worldly solutions. James 1:5 assures us, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally.” Asking God for discernment can open doors to choices that align with His will, even in seemingly impossible situations.
Rely on the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit guides believers into all truth (John 16:13). In situations that challenge moral integrity, the Spirit provides wisdom, strength, and conviction to stand against compromise.
Flee from Sin and Temptation: Paul advises believers in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that God always provides a way out of temptation. Rather than yielding to the “lesser sin,” believers are encouraged to flee from sin entirely. Scripture repeatedly calls for separation from evil, reinforcing that there is no allowance for compromising with sin.
6. Faithfulness over Pragmatism
Trust in God’s Sovereignty: When circumstances pressure believers to make compromising choices, faithfulness to God’s commands should take precedence. Examples like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3) show how God’s people can refuse to bow to evil, trusting God’s power to deliver them without compromising their obedience.
Jesus’ Example: Y’shuah (Jesus) set the ultimate example of refusing compromise, even in the face of extreme suffering. In the wilderness, Satan tempted Him to take “shortcuts” that might seem like lesser evils (Matthew 4:1-11). Yet, Y’shuah refused each time, choosing God’s way over any compromise. He trusted the Father’s plan rather than yielding to any form of evil, demonstrating the importance of unwavering commitment to righteousness.
Conclusion: A Biblical Call to Holiness and Integrity
The concept of choosing “the lesser of two evils” is not supported by Scripture, which consistently calls for holiness and uncompromising obedience to God. Believers are called to trust God, seek His guidance, and reject all forms of evil. Rather than relying on human reasoning to justify a “lesser” sin, God’s people are encouraged to walk in faith and righteousness, believing that God will honor their commitment to His word. As Ephesians 5:11 instructs, “Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” For believers, obedience and trust in God’s wisdom far outweigh the temptation to settle for pragmatic, lesser evils. In today’s world, believers face countless pressures to compromise and settle for the “lesser of two evils.” Yet, as followers of Y’shu’ah, we are called to stand firmly for righteousness, choosing the path that most aligns with God’s Word and His holiness. Choosing righteousness over convenience, integrity over compromise, we bear witness to God’s truth in a world that desperately needs it. Let us seek the most righteous choice in every situation, living as lights in the darkness and faithfully honoring our call to be set apart for His glory.
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