I. Danger of bad companions.

One bad companion corrupts many. ‘A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump.’ 1 Cor. v. 6.

‘Evil communications corrupt good manners.’ 1 Cor. xv. 33.

Eph. v. 11. Prov. xxii. 24, 25.

You are warned in the Scriptures against making companions of:

1. Fools. Prov. xiii. 20.

2. Riotous. Prov. xxviii. 7.

3. Thieves. Isa. i. 23.

4. Depraved. Prov. xxix. 3. 1 Cor. v. 9.

5. Irreligious. 2 Thess. iii. 14. Jam. iv. 4.

If important for yourselves, doubly so for the young, unformed minds of your children.

II. Form good friendships.

‘The friendship of the world is enmity with God.’ Jam. iv. 4.

David chose his friends from those who feared God. Ps. cxix. 63. Heb. x. 33.

III. Observe three rules for the sake of your children, as well as yourselves.

1. Never harbour bad guests.

Lodgers—workpeople.

2. Never associate with the wicked, unless obliged to do so, or with a view to doing them good.

Even this needs caution.

3. Remember, ‘A man is known by his friends.’

You and your children will be judged by the company you keep.