Understanding Moral and Spiritual Blindness
Have you ever felt like it’s easier to ignore something wrong rather than face it head-on? Sometimes we turn a blind eye to problems or pretend they don’t exist, believing they’ll resolve themselves. The Cambridge English Dictionary describes turning a blind eye as “ignoring something you know is wrong.” Similarly, burying one’s head in the sand means “hoping a problem or unpleasant situation will disappear.” But can we afford to ignore the moral and spiritual issues of our time?
A Biblical Perspective on Blindness
In 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, the Apostle Paul speaks about a spiritual blindness. This blindness keeps people from seeing the light of the gospel. It also hinders their understanding of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. This blindness is not just a lack of sight. It stems from the “god of this age.” This entity blinds minds, blocking their perception of God’s truth. It’s a condition where someone hears but doesn’t understand, sees but doesn’t perceive. Their hearts have grown dull, and their spiritual sensitivity is closed off.
Paul explains this type of blindness in 1 Corinthians 2:14. “Someone living on an entirely human level rejects the revelations of God’s Spirit.” They make no sense to them because these truths are only discovered through the Spirit’s illumination.” Spiritual blindness is not just about rejecting God. It’s about being incapable of grasping His divine workings without the Spirit’s guidance.
Moral Blindness in Everyday Life
Moral blindness is a concept defined in Wikipedia as “a state of unawareness or insensibility to moral issues.” In simple terms, it means ignoring what’s right or wrong. This applies both in our own actions and in how we treat others. Moral blindness often shows up as a casual disregard for suffering or injustice. For example, we hear about heartbreaking stories like gun violence. We also hear about poor conditions for migrant children. We feel briefly sad. We offer thoughts and prayers. Then, we move on with our lives. But is that enough?
In modern society, moral blindness can be seen in everyday actions. This happens when turning away from someone in need. It also occurs when refusing to understand their struggles. In the book Moral Blindness: The Loss of Sensitivity in Liquid Modernity, the author highlights that evil often isn’t dramatic. It shows up in our daily indifference to the suffering of others. When we refuse to confront these issues, we become part of the problem.
Spiritual and Moral Blindness: Are They Connected?
As believers, we’re called to live with open eyes—both spiritually and morally. God doesn’t want His people to ignore their own spiritual condition. He also doesn’t want them to overlook the moral conditions around them. The Bible gives us examples of Jesus opening blind eyes and unstopping deaf ears to spiritual truth (Isaiah 35:5). Yet, we must not only focus on our spiritual growth but also tackle the moral issues in society.
How Should Christians Respond?
The world today faces a lack of morality in many areas. Issues like abortion, racism, gun violence, and inequality continue to challenge our society. Some Christians take action by confronting these problems directly. They may do this through protests, speaking to Congress, or advocating for change in court. But is this always the right approach?
There are differing opinions on how Christians should respond to moral declination. Some say we’re not called to be the “moral police,” while others believe we must actively fight against injustice. What does Scripture say? Micah 6:8 offers guidance: “Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God.” As Christians, we should be defined by radical love, kindness, humility, and a passionate pursuit of justice. Our light should shine brightly in the darkness, drawing others to the gospel message of Jesus Christ.
Living as Instruments of Righteousness
Rather than turning a blind eye, we should ask ourselves: What can I do to make a difference? God calls His people to be instruments of righteousness, fit for His use. This means allowing His light to shine through us, showing others the goodness of His transformational power. As Paul reminds us in 2 Corinthians 4:1-6, we preach not ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord. Through God’s mercy, we have the ministry to set forth the truth plainly, so that others can see His glory.
Conclusion
Ignoring problems or avoiding reality feels easier in the short term. But, it’s not what God wants for His people. Moral and spiritual blindness are challenges we face in everyday life, but we’re not alone. With the Spirit’s illumination and God’s guidance, we can confront these issues. We can live as instruments of righteousness. Letting our light shine in the darkness is possible.
Let us be known by our love, kindness, and pursuit of justice, not by indifference. When we live in the truth and grace of God, we live boldly. This way, we can help reveal the glorious gospel to those who are perishing. This allows His light to shine in even the darkest places.
Blessings to you all,
A Fellow Servant
Minister A. Francine Green
Note:
1. Batman, Zygmunt, Donskis, Leonidas, (2013), Moral Blindness: The Loss of Sensitivity in Liquid Modernity, Wiley
afrancinegreen.com 