The Danger of Decadence

The Danger of Decadence

To be decadent is to be "marked by decay or decline." The term derives from the word "decay" which means "a gradual decline in strength, soundness, or prosperity, or in degree of excellence or perfections." "A wasting or wearing away, or ruin" (Webster).

Decadence is seen in many dimensions of life. Moral decadence occurs when people abandon the higher, accepted moral, ethical standards of their society and conduct themselves in a way that is morally inferior. Decadence occurs first the minds of people as they mentally embrace that which is forbidden or frowned upon by the moral and spiritual leaders of their society and the population at large. They then reflect this embrace of lower standards in their conduct. Decadence is generally invasive. The impetus comes to folks from without, from sources beyond themselves. The vices of other nations, communities or social groups have a way of gradually affecting those beyond their borders. Like some deadly virus that a traveler brings back from a distant land, some bring home attitudes conduct that previously were viewed as unfit and unsuitable for citizens.

When sufficient numbers of a community embrace decadence it becomes evident in their literature, music, theater, movies and a coarsening of public conversation. That which was hitherto considered shameful is now tolerated. It is observable in personal conduct of people of all stations in things such as lying, cheating, stealing, drunkenness, use of illicit drugs, homosexual and heterosexual immorality, idleness, wastefulness and violence. In the past they would be scorned and deemed unworthy citizens for such behavior, now their conduct is accepted. Decadence advances slowly. Usually it takes a generation or two before it finally reaches and establishes its new, lower standards of social conduct.

Decadence can also be observed in the realm of religion. It occurs when religious folks abandon the spiritual standards to which they or their ancestors once pledged themselves. Having done that, they embrace that which is base and inferior in quality and value. Medieval Catholicism was decadent as was the Anglican Church in the days of the Wesleyan revolution. To a lesser degree, other denominations have experienced this kind of decay. When spiritual leaders fail to lead their people to higher planes of righteousness, they sink deeper into depravity. Frequently their leaders gradually embrace the lower standards of conduct for themselves. This decadence can be seen both in the abandonment of their doctrinal standards and those of personal piety and devotion.

Normally the trend of conduct is downward. Over a period of time a people spiral downward from the high and noble ideals and standards of their ancestors. A people who were once committed to Christ, and loyal to his word, can forfeit that commitment. People whose lives were once noted for sober, righteous and godly living can turn to a life of indulgence and sin.

When decadence becomes the common, prevailing standard, an entire nation or society is decadent. This happened to ancient Israel on several occasions. It happened to virtually every nation of the past. It is happening all about us today. In Noah's day, the entire human race became so decadent they God no choice but to destroy them (Gen. 6:6-7). Sodom and Gomorrah were sunken in decadence and for it they perished (Gen. 18:20; 19:24).

Decadent people bring judgment on themselves. The moral reprobate often destroys his health. He loses the respect of his family and decent neighbors. He puts himself in jeopardy of God's eternal judgment (Gal. 5:21). Decadent churches lose their standing before God, even if they enjoy popularity and success in the eyes of their decadent neighbors (Rev. 3:1-3). They too will face the God they have dishonored by their departure from his holy standards.

Since the normal tendency is toward decay, individuals and congregations must "strive to enter in by the narrow door" (Luke 13:24). We must stretch forward to the things which are before us, and press on toward the goal of the high calling of God in Christ (Phil. 3:13-14). We must discipline ourselves lest we be rejected (I Cor. 9:27). Only those who are faithful unto death will receive the crown of life (Rev. 2:10).

Sincerely,

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