During his visit to the U.S., Pope Benedict XVI praised the U.S. as a nation where strong religious beliefs can co-exist with secular society. But he later warned in a speech to American bishops that the affect of secularism, even in a subtle form, can lead religious people into promoting and accepting abortion, divorce and couples living together before marriage.
The pope reportedly spoke of the “crude manipulation of sexuality so prevalent today,” and said that churches, families, teachers, the news media and entertainment industry must take responsibility for “moral renewal.”
What do you think of the pope’s comments?
The pope’s recent statements reflect the Bible’s teaching that “bad company corrupts good morals.” God has left the church “in the world,” but He constantly reminds us not to be “of the world.” To follow Jesus Christ we must forsake secular society’s pattern of slavery to the lusts of the eyes and the flesh and the boastful pride of life. God has called us to sanctification, not secularism. His is a calling to hope, a calling out of the hopelessness that characterizes the “world” of humanity that has rejected Him.
