Standing Strong in Truth, Even When It’s Unpopular
Most of us know what it feels like to be pulled along by the crowd. Sometimes, it seems easier to go along with what everyone else is doing—especially when it comes to making decisions or forming opinions. But the Bible has a clear message for us: don’t just follow the crowd, especially when it leads to doing wrong.
God’s Warning: Don’t Join in Evil Just Because It’s Popular
Exodus 23:2 gives a straightforward warning: “Don’t follow the crowd to do evil.” In plain language, this means we shouldn’t join in with others just because something is popular or everyone else seems to be doing it—especially if it’s wrong. This applies to everyday choices, big decisions, and even when we see injustice happening around us.
· Peer pressure isn’t a good guide. Friends, family, or popular voices can sometimes push us to compromise our values or support things we know aren’t right.
· Popularity doesn’t equal truth. Just because “everyone says so” doesn’t make something true or good.
God’s Rules Are a Higher Standard
The Bible makes clear that what’s right and wrong shouldn’t be decided by the crowd, but by God’s teachings. Worldly standards and opinions change all the time, but God’s word remains steady. If we set our compass by what’s popular, we might find ourselves lost, but if we stick to God’s rules, we have a reliable guide.
· Psalm 1:1-2 encourages us to meditate on God’s law and not “walk in the counsel of the wicked.”
· Colossians 2:8 warns against being tricked or led astray by philosophies that aren’t rooted in Christ.
· It’s better to trust God than people. Human wisdom isn’t always reliable, and even crowds can be wrong.
Don’t Let Others Twist Justice
Exodus 23:2 also speaks about justice, reminding us not to let the majority sway us to do what’s unfair or dishonest. In a dispute, we’re told not to side with the crowd just to pervert justice. Instead, we should judge fairly, based on what’s true—not on what’s popular or what others expect.
· Stand up for what’s right. Even if you’re in the minority, your integrity matters more than fitting in.
· Don’t let numbers influence judgment. Truth isn’t a matter of counting votes.
The Dangers of Just “Going Along”
Why does the Bible warn us about following the crowd? Because people in groups can be easily swayed, manipulated, and led into wrongdoing. When we don’t think for ourselves or check our motives, we can end up compromising our integrity or hurting others.
· Corruption: The crowd can pressure individuals to do things they wouldn’t do alone.
· Manipulation: Large groups can be influenced by persuasive leaders or loud voices, even when those voices are wrong.
· Truth over popularity: God wants us to seek truth, not just what’s easy or accepted by the majority.
Guard Your Heart and Be Discerning
Proverbs 23:7 reminds us that people’s outward actions don’t always match their inner thoughts. We should be wise and careful, not just accepting what’s given or said at face value, but discerning motives and looking for genuine goodwill. True relationships—and true justice—come from hearts that are sincere.
· Use wisdom: Don’t be fooled by appearances. Watch for sincerity and integrity.
· Seek genuine fellowship: Value relationships grounded in love and honesty, not just surface-level generosity or popularity.
A Higher Calling: Seeking Truth and Doing Right
The Bible’s message isn’t just about saying “no” to bad influences; it’s about saying “yes” to something higher. We’re called to judge fairly, act with integrity, and seek truth—even when it’s hard or unpopular. Ultimately, our allegiance is to God’s standard, not the shifting opinions of the crowd.
So, next time you feel the pressure to “just go along,” remember: truth and right don’t depend on how many people agree. Listen for God’s voice. Stand firm in your convictions. Trust in God, even if you’re standing alone.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 