The year was 1922 when “flapper” girls emerged. They bobbed their hair and wore short skirts. Though they were not in abundance, Hollywood, California accommodated their new “alternative lifestyle.” Silent movies and then technicolor showcased this “edgy look.” World War II introduced another lifestyle as wives and mothers entered the factory. By necessity, the global conflict opened new doors that the family unit had never seen before.
History records a shift in the home environment birthed by the 60’s sexual revolution. The Beatles and Elvis brought about a more suggestive and open sensuality that knows no boundaries. The alternative lifestyles were becoming more mainstream.
The 2000’s featured a full-on attack against the nuclear family. The Beaver Cleaver image has been decried by those who despise the former definition of normalcy. American culture no longer considers deviations as abnormal. Today, Christianity is the new alternative lifestyle.
Isaiah wrote that the “vineyard” belonged to God, but by virtue of lawlessness, God removed the hedge. It was a forecast of things to come. The people rejected a standard of holiness and God left them to their own demise. Ultimately, Isaiah issued a grave warning due to their hedge-less society. He wrote in Isaiah 5, “Woe to them” six different times. The most glaring warning is found in verse 20, “Woe unto them that call evil good, and good evil; that put darkness for light, and light for darkness; that put bitter for sweet, and sweet for bitter!”
Isaiah pointed out the change in definitions. The things once considered impure would be called pure: Sinful actions would be rewarded, while righteousness would be scorned. Bitter for sweet. Isaiah may not have seen our day with his own eyes, but the Spirit had the view. He said, “woe to the those who justify the wicked and give them an award for being wicked.”
This small excerpt will not tell it all, only to say that we must be prepared to face the final spirit of the age. So hear the word of the Lord: Jesus is coming soon! Keep your light shining. Be sober and aware so you will not be overtaken by the darkness. Serve! Be committed and know that by virtue of His Name and His Word, you are living the alternative lifestyle.
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole