Compromise is often labeled “the language of the devil.” In practice, we usually picture something as dramatic as an adulteress relationship as the epitome of compromise. But most compromises are less obvious and just as dangerous. How many of the decisions we make on a daily basis involve even a hint of pride or selfishness? If we were to make every decision with intent on reflecting Christ’s holiness, how different would our lives be from what they are now? The call from the scriptures is to become like Christ, and integrity in every aspect of our lives is an important aspect of that. |
John MacArthur’s The Power of Integrity provides an exploration of integrity and what it looks like for the people of God to embody it. The first three chapters of the book deal with the definition and foundations of integrity. MacArthur argues that integrity of character is dependent upon union with Christ and integrity of doctrine, and that our “resources in this process are always God’s Word and prayer. Through them you gain the mind of Christ (Col. 3:16).” (p21)
The second
part of the book (chapters 4-6) look to various examples of integrity
demonstrated in the Bible and in the lives of Christians. MacArthur explores the
actions of Daniel and his friends while captive in
In the final chapters, MacArthur lays out the practice of integrity in the life of the believer. Instead of being passive or pietistic, we are to work with “fear and trembling” while utterly depending on God’s work in our lives. We are to seek personal holiness through the various relationships in our lives and that leads to practical holiness that’s displayed in love toward our Christian brethren as well as our enemies. At the end of the book is a helpful study guide for personal or group study and application.
In general, there’s nothing new or original about this book. And there shouldn’t be. The call to live a life of holiness as Christ is holy is ancient and yet we still fail at it. MacArthur merely takes these teachings and focuses our attention on them in a manner that is biblical and effectively practical. Among the many reasons for us to pursue integrity, one is that we live before a watching world. John MacArthur challenges us to look different from the world by living lives devoted to God without compromise. As the church continues to blend in with the watching world, books such as The Power of Integrity are necessary reminders of our responsibility to be work out our sanctification in this life.
