A Corrupted Virtue — When “Good” Becomes Dangerous

Or: Simplicity That’s Worse Than Theft

Virtue is the crown of Christian character.But not every form of virtue is holy—some are poisoned at the root.

God calls His people not just to kindness, but to wisdom.Not just to generosity, but to truth.Especially in the New Testament, we are urged to walk in spiritual discernment, not just good intentions.

Take Judas Iscariot as a sobering example.He spoke what sounded like virtue when he said,"Why this waste of perfume? It could have been sold and given to the poor.”But Jesus answered,"The poor you will always have with you, but you will not always have Me.”(John 12:5–8)

Judas may have sounded noble—but his heart was far from God.Right after that moment, Satan entered into him—and Judas made plans to betray the Son of God.

Or consider the strong words of Jesus:"Let the dead bury their own dead. But you go and proclaim the kingdom of God.”(Luke 9:60)It wasn’t a dismissal of human sorrow—it was a call to spiritual priorities.

Too often, people elevate cultural expectations or religious habits above the wisdom of God.They mean well—but without discernment, even goodness can become a trap.

When Jesus called His followers sheep, it wasn’t to praise blind obedience.It was to illustrate their ability to know and follow the Shepherd’s voice.He never told us to be a mindless herd, rushing wherever the crowd leads.Instead, He said:"Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” (Matthew 10:16)

Jesus often used the animal kingdom to teach truth—but never once did He say we were to be weak, defenseless prey, easily caught and destroyed.We are part of a living Kingdom, not a dead one.

The Holy Spirit leads His people—those who are born again—toward the purpose God has designed."When they arrest you and hand you over, do not worry beforehand about what to say. Just say whatever is given you at the time, for it is not you speaking, but the Holy Spirit."(Mark 13:11)

When virtue is twisted, it always becomes a vice.And how do you know the difference?By the fruit."By their fruit you will recognize them.” (Matthew 7:16)

If the result of a “good” action is confusion, corruption, or compromise—then something is wrong at the root.

Saying “God will sort it out” may sound spiritual—but often, it’s a mask for laziness or foolishness.God calls us to grow in wisdom, not hide behind excuses.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without finding fault, and it will be given to him.”(James 1:5)

Amen.