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Dancing Clarification
is crucial. Too often we tend to paint with a broad brush and speak in
generalities that are not exactly accurate, and as a result we slight God’s
Word and lose credibility with people. For instance, we have probably all heard
a preacher or Bible class teacher say “dancing is sinful.” Is that true? I
would suggest that the statement needs some clarification. Not
all dancing is sinful. Solomon said that there is a “time to dance”
(Ecclesiastes 3:4). Dancing was used in worship (Psalm 149:3; 150:4). Miriam
danced in praise to God (Exodus 15:20), as did David (Psalm 30:11). Jesus spoke
favorably of dancing in connection with rejoicing over a repentant sinner (Luke
15:25). Surely you see the point. On
the other hand, however, some dancing is sinful. Promiscuous dancing between
people who are not married would certainly classify as “lasciviousness”
(Galatians 5:19, KJV), which is a work of the flesh and will keep people from
inheriting the kingdom of God (v. 21). “Lasciviousness” is lewd or
licentious behavior. It includes unchaste bodily movements that are provocative
and vile. Dancing
that involves motion or contact that would not be appropriate if the music were
turned off is clearly wrong. “Dim lights” and “enticing lyrics” do not
change the boundaries of decency with God. Promiscuous
dancing has led to lust, fornication, adultery, and even murder. You may recall
that the daughter of Herodias “danced” for Herod causing him to lose his
head (figuratively), which resulted in John the Baptist losing his head
(literally). Such dancing was obviously not innocent. There
is also something to be said about influence. Christians are to let their light
shine (Philippians 2:15). We are to behave in a way that points people to the
Lord. How can that be done while dancing? T.A. Vogner, the former supervisor of
the Dancing Academy in California, once said, “No woman can waltz well and
waltz virtuously.” I dare say the “waltzing” at that time pales in
comparison to the bumping, grinding, and shaking that passes for dancing
today.
So,
it is important that we clarify ourselves. Not all dancing is sinful. There are
passages in the Bible that speak favorably of dancing. There is nothing wrong
with a husband and wife dancing in the privacy of their home, young children
dancing together as they watch Barney on television, or elderly women line
dancing in an exercise class. However, some dancing is sinful. Promiscuous
dancing between people who are not married is a violation of God’s law.
Clarification on this and other matters (like eating in the church building)
allows us to be true to God’s Word and builds credibility with people. |