"I do not understand this distinction," Cheryl stated. "It seems to me that a person's action is either good or bad; not good civilly, but sinful biblically."

"Let me attempt to explain by use of an example," her teacher responded. "Suppose you returned to school tonight to finish typing a report due tomorrow, and that I also was here working quite late.

"After finishing your typing, you return to your car and discover that it has a flat tire. You mention this to me as you re-enter the building to phone someone for assistance, and I offer to help you. I change your tire, and you travel home safely.

"Civilly, this is a good work - I performed a kind, neighborly action which was of benefit to another. As we would see and judge each other outwardly, this was a good work.

"Inwardly, however, my motivations could have been very diverse. Possibly in my heart, I did not want to help you at all. But from concern for my own reputation -that I would appear to others as a very uncaring person if I did not assist you -I acted concerned and helpful, and changed your tire for you.

"Do you see how my action, inwardly, was a sinful one in God's sight, one motivated by: self-glory rather than God's glory, self-love rather than true love for another, and self-thought rather than faith in God? Yet, outwardly, this same action was helpful and good. Can you understand this distinction now?"