In a recent conversation about a current social issue, someone asked me, “what would you do if you were in that situation”. While a legitimate question and one I often I ask myself, the reality is, when considering what is the correct response or position on a matter, it is irrelevant. What I would do has no bearing on the rightness or wrongness of a matter.
First, its hard to be certain what one would do when put in a position having to act on a particular issue. Even our strongly held beliefs may be challenged. The reason for this is the more important reason the original question is irrelevant.
My response when faced with having to personally respond to a difficult situation is subject to my own personal strengths or weaknesses. While I believe and want to respond in a certain way, my weakness may hinder me from doing so. A good example of this is the Apostle Simon Peter. When Jesus told him he would deny Him three times before the night was over, Peter absolutely rejected the idea. He responded with complete confidence and boldness that he would never do such a thing. Later that evening, when faced with pressure and at a minimum the fear\threat of arrest he did exactly as Jesus had foretold. The good news is Jesus forgave him, restored him and he did a lot better in the future.
The rightness or wrongness of a matter is determined by things far more important and secure than me. A better question would be “what would Jesus do?” or “What does the Bible say?” Yes, I believe that most issues have a definite right and wrong, whose standards are God and His Word.