We may have heard or read, that as believers we shouldn’t socialize with sinners because they may corrupt our souls and make us backslide. We may have also read where Jesus socialized with sinners in the efforts to present Himself as the way, the truth, and the light. So, which one is correct? The answer is both.

There are times where we need to distance ourselves from sinners to spend time with God and strengthen our inner man and there are times where we need to sit with sinners so they can experience a genuine loving non-judgmental light in a dark world.

Look at Jesus. Although He spent times with sinners, there were times where He distanced Himself and was alone with God. He successfully accomplished both.

We must have balance. We can’t be so spiritual until we’re no earthly good and we can’t be so worldly until it’s hard to tell if we’re saved. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide. He’ll tell us when to socialize and when to temporarily distance ourselves.

Matthew 17:1 After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves.

Matthew 9:10 While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples.