We, in these early years of the twenty-first century, need to take responsibility for our own actions. These ancient words, more than two thousand five hundred years old, are utterly relevant to our present situation. We have become contaminated with the valueless concepts of 'Post-Modern Relativism'.
This has especially undermined Christian teaching of 'right' and 'wrong'. I particularly emphasise Christian teaching because there is a real danger of equating Old Testament concepts with those of Jesus.
Whilst Jesus did venerate many of the Old Testament requirements, he placed a totally new emphasis - of Love and Forgiveness - on them. We must follow his example of recognising that certain types of behaviour are, fundamentally, wrong and that we should adopt a loving attitude. Nevertheless we do need to note that 'a sin is a sin is a sin' and that repentance is also required.

Oh Lord my God to you I lift my heart;
My life I place into your care.
Teach me to know how I should play my part
That I may find you everywhere.

Help us, who serve you, not to be too proud
That we may show your love each day.
Grant that when the world is over loud
We hear your "still small voice" each day.

Oh, Lord God, in Christ you are my Saviour,
For you are my hope all day long.
Since by grace I have found your favour;
Your praise shall be my constant song.

To god the Father praise and glory be;
All honour give to God the Son.
Praises sing to God the Holy Spirit,
Our blessed glorious Three in One.

Lord Jesus Christ
Before aught was made
You were one with God
High and free.
Sharing God's form and nature there,
Leaving it all our sin to bear
Showing the depth of Love and car
Saving Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ,
You who are blameless
Taking our likeness
And our sin.
Sharing our lot and nature here
Showing in death your Love most dear
Suffering for us without fear
Dearest Lord.

Lord Jesus Christ
Now raised up on high
Every tongue shall cry
You are Lord,
Glory to God the Father show
And on the Spirit praise bestow
Worshipping them with you below
Holy Three.

The ultimate 'authority' of the Christian stems from the teaching, example, death and resurrection of Jesus. We, as individuals, may then have other 'authorities' issued to us through the denomination to which we belong. We also have our personal 'authority' which derives from the quality of our life-style. Ideally all these should present a coherent whole whenever we speak or act.
Bearing these in mind then, let us have the courage of our conviction to make a positive witness to our faith in Christ whenever we are challenged. This means that we need to soak ourselves in our use of the Bible, in developing our understanding of our faith and in fellowship with other Christians. This is a life-long commitment. Only in the power of the Holy Spirit does it become possible.