Tag Archives: Salvation

The Invitation (Part 2) – Is Your Name on the List?

21 Tuesday Jul 2015

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ID-10088842In an earlier blog post entitled ‘The Invitation – Will You Accept It?’, the concept of accepting the open invitation that God offers through Jesus Christ was examined. The example of an invitation that is sent to selected individuals was highlighted to point out that God invites every person to accept His invitation of salvation through Christ. However, with every invitation and acceptance of the invite there is then the addition of a person’s name to a guest list.

A guest list is used to confirm that an individual has indeed been invited and accepted the invitation.  The person’s signature or name on the list is used to identify the individual and or accompanying guests with the event and those who are the honorees of the event. Without your name showing as listed, then you are unable to gain entry into the event or participate.  So, in the case of any social event that requires an invitation, it is usually best to ensure that your name is added to the list.

Spiritually speaking, the process is the same when it comes to receiving salvation through Jesus Christ. The first part of the process involves an invitation that is sent unto all of humanity.  The second part of the process involves the addition of each individual’s name once Christ’s sacrifice has been accepted.  In the book of Revelation Chapter 21, there is a reference to what is called, ‘The Lamb’s Book of Life’.  Verse 27 of this chapter says:

(ESV) “But nothing unclean will ever enter it, nor anyone who does what is detestable or false, but only those who are written in the Lamb’s book of life.” 

The Apostle John is the writer of the book of Revelation, and it is important to note that the ‘it’ that John refers to is that of ‘The New Jerusalem.’  What is ‘The New Jerusalem’? ‘The New Jerusalem’ will be the manifestation of God’s Kingdom on Earth.  It will be an Earth that is completely remade, and it will be purged from the sin that currently exists today. The Apostle John makes it clear in verse 27 that anyone whose name is not written in The Lamb’s Book of Life, shall not enter into ‘The New Jerusalem.’

In Chapter 21, the Apostle John is shown a vision of what ‘The New Jerusalem’ or ‘The New Earth’ will look like. Seven angels show John the images of The New Earth in verses 9-25. Nevertheless, it is important to note that according to 2 Peter 3:10, the Earth in its current condition will be destroyed by fire. This will occur after the Earth as we know it has ceased. It is only at that point that ‘The New Jerusalem’ will be established. However, before all of that occurs, there is a period of time in which anyone who desires can be saved through Jesus Christ.

As a side note, it is necessary to point out that the book of Revelation is essentially a book full of prophecy.  It is one of the main books of the Bible which uses imagery concerning The End Times and what will take place when the end of the Earth as we know it shall come. Throughout this book, the Apostle John records symbolic visions which relate to where we are today, and what will occur in the future.

‘The Lamb’s Book of Life’ or as other verses of scripture use the phrase, ‘The Book of the Living’, is the book in which the name of every person who receives salvation through Jesus Christ will be added. ‘The Book of Life’ is mentioned in various scriptures from Philippians 4:3, to Revelation 20:15, and even Psalm 69:28.  It is clear that whenever a person receives salvation, their name is recorded as a way to confirm their entrance into our resting place in God’s presence.

However, those whose names are not recorded are literally on the outside looking in. Revelation 20:15 says it this way:

(ESV) “And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”

In Revelation Chapter 20, the Apostle John is seeing a different vision than in Chapter 21.  In this chapter, he recounts what will occur after satan is finally defeated, and those who have rejected Christ receiving judgment. Based on verse 15, it is clear that those who chose to reject God openly will suffer the punishment of being thrown into the lake of fire.  The lake of fire is the eternal punishment designated for satan and his followers.  So, if anyone adamantly rejects Jesus Christ and leaves this natural life in that condition, their name will not be recorded in The Book of Life.

Having your name recorded in The Book of Life, secures you eternally because it allows you to have access to the Kingdom of Heaven and eternal rest. There will be many who will be unaccounted for, and yet at the end of their lives they will come to the point of wanting to receive Jesus Christ as Lord & Savior.  However, at the point of judgment, it will be too late.

The opportunity to receive Jesus Christ while you are alive is God’s gift of time to all of us. Many will spend their lives wasting away and serving their sinful nature only to find that it profits nothing. A life that is lived for oneself is a life that is built upon a foundation that is unstable. God desires that every name be added to The Book of Life. However, He knows that there will be many who will reject His gift of love and salvation.

Just as an invitation is sent to a respected and chosen guest, there is a reciprocal action that the invited must take.  To participate in the event, the invited must accept the invitation to have their name added to the guest list. Failure to do so will result in a missed opportunity of experiencing what would potentially be a wondrous event. Many are traveling down the road of indifference or a blatant refusal of such an esteemed invitation.

How great is it to know that you and I have been invited  by the creator of the universe?  God the almighty wants to have a relationship with you through Christ, and He wishes that you spend eternity in His presence.  However, the choice is yours.  Will you accept this invitation and have your name added to The Lamb’s Book of Life? Accept the sacrifice of Jesus Christ in the pardon of your sins, and allow God to escort you into His glorious Kingdom.

The Good News – What Exactly is it?

20 Monday Jul 2015

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Everyone likes to hear good news because it signifies that something pleasant has occurred.  Good news could be that you will receive a raise or a promotion on your job.  It may mean that you received a positive diagnosis from your doctor after getting a negative report.  Good news essentially means that a person’s fortune or current status in life has improved from a previous status. It is the positivity of any news story that provides joy, hope, and an elevated outlook towards the future.

It is the same type of hope and joy that can be found when the Gospel of Jesus Christ is examined.  What does the term, ‘Gospel’ mean and how does it translate into ‘The Good News?’ In the book of Mark Chapter 16, the resurrection of Jesus Christ is recorded. In this chapter, there is an account of Mary Magdalene, Mary the Mother of James, and Salome. The three women purchase burial spices in order to anoint the body of Jesus in the tomb. According to verses 3-4, they find that the stone which had been in front of Jesus’ tomb had been rolled away.

In verses 5-6, they encounter an angel of the Lord. They are told by the angel that Jesus is not dead but alive.  They were then given the instructions to go to Peter and the rest of the Disciples to deliver the news. However, because they were too frightened, they did not deliver the instructions right away as they had been told. The next day, Mary Magdalene is the first to see Jesus. Mark 16: 9-11 says the following:

(NLT) “After Jesus rose from the dead early on Sunday morning, the first person who saw him was Mary Magdalene, the woman from whom he had cast out seven demons. She went to the disciples, who were grieving and weeping, and told them what had happened. But when she told them that Jesus was alive and she had seen him, they didn’t believe her.”

Notice that the initial reaction of the Disciples was that they did not believe the news that was given. However, Jesus scolds the Disciples and gives them instructions in verses 14-15:

(NLT) “Still later he appeared to the eleven disciples as they were eating together. He rebuked them for their stubborn unbelief because they refused to believe those who had seen him after he had been raised from the dead. And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” 

This particular translation uses the phrase, ‘Good News’, however, other translations use the term, ‘Gospel’.  Essentially, the term ‘Gospel’ means, ‘Good News’. The word ‘euangelion’ is Greek for the word, ‘Gospel’.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ is considered the ‘Good News’.  However, why does Jesus use that phrase, and why does He instruct the Disciples to go into all of the world to preach this ‘Good News’?

If you look at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ in its essence, it was an occurrence in human history that forever changed the dynamic of humanity’s initial destiny which was that of destruction. Jesus Christ’s sacrifice was the very act that repaired the chasm that existed between God and humanity. John 3:16 which is one of the most quoted Bible verses, simply states that it was the act of God’s love that gave humanity an opportunity to be redeemed through Jesus Christ. ‘The Good News’ is that Jesus Christ came to die for the sins of the world so that you and I could be redeemed and set free from our sin.

However, the Gospel of Jesus Christ isn’t simply a New Testament occurrence. ‘The Good News’ is actually for both the Old and New Testament because the Gospel goes as far back to the book of Genesis.  The reason why sin entered into the Earth originally was due to Adam & Eve’s disobedience.  Thus, the generation of every person after Adam & Eve, inherited the sinful nature that exists within the world today. Based on that fact, humanity was destined for destruction because of the original condition of being in sin. That is obviously the bad news.

It is important to note that even in the Old Testament of the Bible, there were prophecies of Jesus Christ coming to save humanity from its sinful condition. For example, the Prophet Isaiah prophesied of the 1st coming of Christ:

Isaiah 9:6

(NLT) “For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.”

The above scripture is a direct prophecy of the 1st coming of Jesus Christ. Basically, the Gospel of Jesus Christ isn’t limited to the New Testament of the Bible, but it encompasses the entirety of God’s Word.  It was always in God’s plan to redeem humanity through Jesus Christ, even before He came to the Earth to die and rise again. So, the point is that the Gospel of Jesus Christ is indeed good news for all of humanity. The reason why it is called ‘The Good News’ is because, we as humans now have a way of avoiding destruction.

In our sinful state, we are unable to have fellowship or communion with God. It is because of our sin, that we are separated from truly knowing God in an authentic relationship.  However, when Jesus Christ came to die, the power that sin had over humanity was broken.  Christ was the advocate who took the punishment and death that was ours to pay. It was because of Christ’s willingness to become sin for us, that you and I now have an opportunity to be cleansed of our sin through His precious blood.

The Gospel of Jesus Christ is indeed ‘The Good News’ for the entire world. Nowhere else in human history will there ever be a greater love than God’s love, and a greater story of redemption. By birth, you and I were born into sin and it is because of that reality that we deserve destruction.  However, the destruction that is pending can be cancelled upon the acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Lord & Savior.

Unfortunately, there are many Pastors and even Christians who have not adequately expressed or shown the world what the Gospel of Jesus Christ is. There are those who have either watered down the Gospel or have not taken the time to focus on it which, in essence, rejects Christ’s original instruction. Jesus’ original instruction to the Disciples was to preach the Gospel unto all of the nations.  That should be the goal of every Christian because ‘The Good News’ is meant to be spread unto all of humanity.  Not spreading this ‘Good News’ only means that many will be unaware of the reality of Hell and destruction.  Also, by not adhering to Jesus’ instructions, many are missing out on knowing God in an authentic relationship for themselves.

Do you know Jesus as your Lord & Savior?  If you have not accepted Christ’s sacrifice, you have an opportunity.  The bad news is that you are destined for Hell and eternal separation from God’s presence if you do not accept Christ’s sacrifice.  However, the good news is, that Jesus Christ is your way out of such a horrid destiny.  The price has already been paid.  Reach out to Jesus and confess before Him that you are a sinner in need of His saving grace. When you do that, you will be saved, and you will be able to declare the Gospel to another lost soul. This in turn perpetuates the opportunity toward those who will be forever changed because of Jesus Christ.

Access Granted – What Happens When You Have a Relationship With God?

17 Friday Jul 2015

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ID-10046524In the late 20th century and even into the 21st century, technology has encompassed the implementation of securing information and transactions. One of the main methods used as a part of secure technology is that of having a username and a password. When accessing data that is considered to be private, it is critical to authenticate a user’s information so that the data remains classified to the general public. If you have sensitive information, only you should have access to such information because your access is granted based on your username and your password. Anyone who does not have access to your account or user information will be denied.

When it comes to our spiritual well-being, God treats every individual in the same way. Basically, the way to access Heaven, eternal life, and divine security here on Earth is through Jesus Christ. When you and I make the decision to accept Jesus Christ as our Lord & personal Savior, we will then have access to everything that God desires for us. In Matthew Chapter 7 verses 21-23, Jesus gives us the disposition that God has and will have toward anyone who has not accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord & Savior:

(ESV) “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day, many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”

When you look at this scripture, there are a few things that are clear that all of us should strongly consider:

1. It isn’t just about invoking the name of the Lord – Jesus clearly says in verse 21 that not everyone who calls out to Him, “Lord, Lord” will enter into the Kingdom Heaven. This means that just because the name of the Lord is invoked, doesn’t mean that God recognizes the individual who is calling out to Him. Take for instance the earlier example of entering a username and a password to access an account.  If you are trying to access someone else’s account, it won’t work without their username and password. So, as hard as you may try, you won’t have access without the correct information.

God treats humanity in the same way in that, the only way to God is through Jesus Christ.  Notice what else Jesus says in this scripture when he says, “but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”  After you have accepted Christ as your Lord & Savior, there is more that should take place. Your words and your actions should line up with what you have professed. God isn’t just concerned with what you say, but He is concerned with your heart and the actions that are a result of your relationship with God. 

2. We are not saved by works – For quite some time, the idea that one can be saved through works alone has been accepted as a barometer for salvation.  However, Jesus says that on the day of judgment there will be many who will give God a list of their own examples of what they have done, which they think will be sufficient for entering into Heaven.  However, works that a person does is not what qualifies a person to enter into eternal rest with God. Ephesians 2:9 in the NLT version says, “Salvation is not a reward for the good things we have done, so none of us can boast about it.”

The above scripture clearly states that salvation is not contingent upon our works, because if it were then it would be used as a tool to boast in our own abilities. Also, if salvation were based on works and not grace, then the sacrifice of Jesus Christ would not have been necessary.

It is important to note that a person’s works and service unto God is a product of a changed heart through Jesus Christ. In Matthew 7:16, Jesus says that you will know the tree by the fruit it bears.  Basically, actions matter in the sense that it is a reflection of what is in a person’s heart.  For your actions to change, you must spend time in prayer, worship, and the reading of God’s Word.  By doing so on a daily basis, your heart begins to change because you are drenching yourself in the presence of God.

3. God does not recognize anyone who is not associated with Jesus Christ – It goes back to the example of using the correct username and password.  If a user has the correct access, then they will be granted permission to the information within the account. In Matthew 7:23, Jesus tells us what will happen if someone does not have a relationship with God through Christ: “And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’”  

Our recognition by God is based on His son Jesus Christ.  If you have not accepted Jesus as your Lord & Savior, then God will not recognize you as His own on your judgment day. God wants to know you for your allegiance and relationship with Him through Christ. There are many who do good works, but their heart has not been changed through the convicting power of the Holy Spirit. In order for you and I to be received by God, our lives must be intertwined with Jesus Christ in the remission of our sins.

So then, what happens when you have a relationship with God?

1. You have access to His blessings and protection – Once you have decided to accept Christ in the pardon of your sins, you have become a child of God.  Like a daughter or a son has access to the inheritance of their father, you will have an inheritance that God will provide to you.  This even involves being protected from the snares of the enemy. Protection comes from being on the side of the one who the Psalmist David often references in the context of being His protector.  The one who protects and delivers is the almighty God.

2. The life you live becomes a testament of God’s love for humanity – If you are actively pursuing God and spending time developing your relationship with Him, then your life will transform before the eyes of the world. One of the great things about salvation is that it isn’t just limited to you, but it is for the entire world. The salvation that God offers can be portrayed in your life by how you live and what you say.

3. God’s purpose for your life is revealed to you – Every life on Earth has a specific purpose for being.  However, there are many who never discover what they were made to do or the impact that they can have in God’s Kingdom. By having a relationship with God, your purpose for the sake of God’s Kingdom is not only revealed, but it is completed as you live daily.

Do you have access to God through Jesus Christ? There are so many who have tried to access God through other means. Some have tried it by religiously attending church services.  Others have tried it by serving in various ministries in order to perform “good works.” Then there are even those who believe that you can be saved and spared from Hell just by being a “good person.” The mistake in all of these methods is that they do not include an adherence to God, nor do they exhibit one’s need to be saved from their sin.

Jesus Christ gave His life for you so that you could have everlasting life. However, the gift of salvation is freely given for you to accept voluntarily. You cannot receive salvation by your own good works or by living morally.  The only guidelines and way of living that apply to eternal salvation are the precepts that God has put into place. Accept Christ, and you will be granted access to a changed heart, a changed mind, and a changed life.

The Light of Jesus Christ in a Dark World

03 Friday Jul 2015

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ID-10028643Have you ever experienced a power outage in your home or place of employment? If you have, you would have realized that the darkness and the lack of electricity was the result of the power outage. So, it is natural that one’s first instinct is to find a source of light. Whether it be a flashlight or a candle, the goal is to eliminate the darkness so that you can see in the midst of the circumstances. Having a source of light allows you to maintain some sense of normalcy and the ability to move freely without stumbling.

In this world that we live in, there are plenty of examples that we can point to which show the darkness that surrounds us daily. Various forms of sin have now become acceptable and practiced openly. World leaders also exhibit levels of corruption and a lack of restraint which causes their citizenry to shrink back in fear over governmental oppression and poor leadership. Violence and tragedies seem to be an unfortunate part of our world culture.  If one were solely focused on the daily and nightly news reports, then it would seem that darkness reigns over humanity.

However, darkness has an enemy, and that is anything that emits or radiates light. In John 8:12, Jesus says the following:

(NIV) “When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” 

At the beginning of John Chapter 8, we see Jesus being challenged by Pharisees. In verses 1-11 of this chapter, a woman who committed adultery was brought to Jesus by the Pharisees.  The Pharisees attempted to use the Mosaic law (The law established during the time of Moses) to condemn the woman to death by stoning.  However, Jesus instead does not condemn this woman, but tells her to go on her way, and not to sin again.  This, of course, infuriated the Pharisees, but Jesus responded with what He said in verse 12, which is that He is the light of the world. What did Jesus mean by that statement?

If you look at Jesus Christ, He is the son of the living God.  He is also God in the flesh according to Colossians 2:9 which says, (NLT) “For in Christ lives all the fullness of God in a human body.” So, this means that because Jesus is indeed God in the flesh, He also contains the very power and majesty that God does.  This can be translated to mean that God’s ability to enlighten all men unto His truth is in the very essence of Jesus Christ. So, when Jesus says that He is the light of the world, He is saying that He is the pathway out of darkness and that He gives direction.

In that same verse, Jesus says that whoever follows Him, will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.  The great thing about God is, that He always gives humanity an opportunity to be free from sin and the darkness that we are surrounded by. It is because of humanity’s sinfulness and disobedience, that darkness looms over the world.  However, when we are in Christ and we follow Him, we are no longer blind or in darkness.  Instead, we are able to see through the darkness so that we have an uninhibited pathway.

So this means, that because Jesus is the light of the world, then we ourselves are also to carry His light into a dark and dying world. In Matthew 5:14, Jesus says, (NIV) “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” If we choose to accept Christ’s sacrifice and to follow Him, then we are automatically agents of light in any dark place. That is because, upon salvation and spiritual development through prayer, worship and the reading of God’s word, we begin to gain the attributes of Christ.

It is important to also examine the terms, “darkness” and “light”.  Why does Christ use these two terms?  What do they represent? Starting with the term, “light”, it symbolizes the very deity and holiness of God which also includes Jesus Christ.  John 1 says the following:

(NIV) John 1: 1-5:

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

Who is “the Word”?  The Word is actually Jesus Christ.  This scripture says that in Him or in God, was life and that life was the light of all mankind.  What the Apostle John is saying here, is that in Christ, there is life because the life that is in Jesus Christ, is also in God Himself since Jesus is God in the flesh.  So, the term light is meant to show forth life, and an illumination of God’s glory which one would not otherwise see in darkness or in sin. As this scripture also says, it is the light that shines in the darkness which means the glory of God that pierces anything that is considered to be “darkness”.

In addition to understanding the term, “light” we must understand what the term “darkness” means.  What is “darkness”? In Ephesians 5:8 it says, (NIV) “For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of light” In this chapter, the Apostle Paul is writing to the church of Ephesus. He mentions in verses 3-5, various sins that Christians should not find themselves engaging in.  Paul’s mission is to give admonishment to those in Ephesus to walk in love but to also walk in the ways of God.

Essentially, darkness means two things:

1. Sinfulness – To walk in darkness is to walk in sin. The sins that Paul encourages us not to participate in are, obscene talking, sexual immorality, any kind of impurity, greed, or coarse joking.  Walking in darkness is to walk in an opposed view of what God expects of His people, which is that of holiness and separation.

2. Ignorance or blindness – Think of this as spiritual blindness.  When one is in their sin, they are not aware of the damage that it does, nor do they understand the eternal implications.  So, to be in darkness is the same as being in a position of unawareness.

The whole point of God sending Jesus Christ to die for our sins, was so that humanity could be enlightened and changed.  The reason why there are so many instances of darkness and examples of bad behavior in our world, is because those who are in their sin have not accepted Christ. Do you know Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior?  If not, you have an opportunity to be shown the pathway unto life.  If you are in darkness, you are open to the consequences of your sin.  However, Jesus came to shed a light to your dark path.

The thing about light and darkness is, they cannot co-exist.  Jesus Christ shines the light for you and I, so that we can see the way that we ought to live. All of us who are Christians, we are to be the light of Christ to a dark and dying world. This is so others can see the beauty of God, and receive salvation. The light of the world is Jesus Christ. Take the time to accept His gift of salvation.

The Invitation – Will You Accept It?

29 Monday Jun 2015

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ID-10023653If you have ever been invited to a special event, it is likely you would have received an invitation either by email or by mail. Invitations are designed to formally invite each guest or person that is enlisted. This is so they can participate in an event that is deemed to be celebratory or of special recognition to the honoree/s. Each person who is invited is in some way affiliated with whoever is the focal point of the ceremony or gathering.  One can surmise that the guest has a relationship or at least know of those who they were invited by. As a guest, one can expect to be given special treatment and acceptance which is a by-product of the affiliation with the honoree/s.  In most cases, however, invitations that are sent, are usually exclusive rather than inclusive of all.

The large difference between an event that is exclusive to the public, and the invitation that God offers through Jesus Christ, is that God’s invitation is inclusive to all.  One of the most quoted and most familiar passages of scripture can be found in John 3:16.  It says:

(NIV) “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

The key word in this verse of scripture is “whoever” or as some translations say, “whosoever”. This scripture has become a testament and the crux of the love that God has shown to all of humanity.  It highlights the decision that God made on behalf of humanity to send Jesus Christ, His one and only son to die for the Earth’s sins. As a result of Christ’s death on the cross, humanity has an opportunity to receive salvation.  As this scripture says, “whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” That means, regardless of who you are, and what you have done in your past – if you trust in Jesus Christ and believe He was raised from the dead, then salvation is available to you.

The great thing about God is, He always provides an alternative for humanity. If you look at the world around you, there is a constant decay that has and continues to occur before our eyes. The rapid decadence that is on display is a result of the sinfulness that has run rampant. However, the alternative is a life that is lived through accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. God made a way for humanity to escape His wrath and to escape Hell.

The truth is, all of us deserve to be destroyed, because of our sinful nature. In Psalm 51:5, the psalmist David says that he was a sinner at birth, which also applies to each human being.  It is because of the sin that Adam & Eve committed in the Garden of Eden, that our original destiny was one of destruction and sinfulness.  However, the alternative to that plan was Jesus Christ who is the giver of life.

In 2 Peter 3:9 it says, (NIV) “The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.”  This scripture essentially means that throughout all of the sins that we commit, God shows us patience. This can be understood as God’s grace unto us which God extends to every person.  The grace of God is something that many have been covered by, even when we deserved the worst of what should have happened to us.

The above scripture also makes it clear, that God does not desire to see humanity perish but to come to repentance.  That is His desire for you and I. When we are unrepentant in our sin, then the penalty is death both spiritually and physically as it says in Romans 6:23. All of the sinfulness that is now being promoted within our society, it has a cost. The legalization of homosexuals being able to marry in 21 countries is not only an abomination to God’s order, but it is a sin.  This sin among other sins has a high price to pay. However, God does not want humanity to pay for its sin through destruction.

Jesus Christ died for you and I so that we would not have to pay the price that we owe. All of the lawlessness that has become “the law” only puts our global society into more confusion.  However, God wants us to repent as a human race.  By repenting, we are acknowledging that we have sinned and that we are ready to surrender our lives unto God through Jesus Christ.  While God’s grace is available to all, the thing about His grace is, that it eventually runs out. While God is patient with us, once He has given us ample time to repent and we do not, the consequences begin to take effect.

In Romans 6: 1-4 the Apostle Paul says:

(NIV) “What shall we say, then? Shall we go on sinning so that grace may increase? By no means! We are those who have died to sin; how can we live in it any longer? Or don’t you know that all of us who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life.”

In this passage, the Apostle Paul begins by asking a question of whether or not we should continue sinning so that grace may abound. His answer is an emphatic, no. Instead, Paul encourages us not to continue in sin but to remember that because Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, we too have an opportunity to have a new life. It is this invitation to a brand new life, that God offers to every person through Jesus Christ.

What the world offers to us, is the alternative to a life of destruction.  Much of the temptations and pressures to conform to this world system, result in a lower quality of life, in addition to an eternity that is spent in separation from God’s presence.  However, the way out is by accepting the invitation that Jesus offers through His sacrifice.  Just like any invitation, you have the opportunity to accept or decline. It is based on your free-will.  God will not force you to love Him or accept His grace and mercy, but rather He wants you and I to choose Him.  Will you accept God’s invitation? He is waiting for you so that you can have life and life abundantly.

Speaking God’s Truth Instead of Remaining in Silence

18 Monday May 2015

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ID-10029952Throughout human history, the Gospel of Jesus Christ and professing God’s truth has been met with opposition. There are many Biblical accounts of those who were martyred for the sake of spreading the Gospel of Jesus.  Even many were tortured, beaten, and made to be pariahs in their own villages because of their stance for speaking against sin and for salvation.  This is also true in today’s time – many Christians are now reviled for standing up against the sinfulness and disobedience against the precepts of God.

In the Bible, the prophet Jeremiah was given a task to warn the people of Jerusalem and the Kings of Judah in Jeremiah 19.  Throughout that passage, Jeremiah gives a warning against both nations for their idolatry and worship unto Baal who was a foreign god, in addition to their insolence against God’s decrees.  As Jeremiah gives his prophecy, he is then imprisoned by a Priest named Pashur. (Jeremiah 20: 1-2).  In verse 3, after Jeremiah is released he gives a prophecy to Pashur that his name will no longer be “Pashur” but “Terror on Every Side.”  This is because of Pashur’s willingness to defy God’s words and imprisoning Jeremiah for his prophecy.  In verses 4-6, Jeremiah prophesies that the nation of Judah will be given over to the King of Babylon – while Pashur along with his friends and the Kings of Judah will be buried in Babylon as punishment.

The above is Jeremiah’s prophecy which eventually comes true, however, there is a complaint that Jeremiah makes to God:

Jeremiah 20: 7-9 says in the NIV version:

“You deceived me, Lord, and I was deceived; you overpowered me and prevailed. I am ridiculed all day long; everyone mocks me. Whenever I speak, I cry out proclaiming violence and destruction. So the word of the Lord has brought me insult and reproach all day long. But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name, his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.”

Jeremiah has grown weary of the persecution that he is receiving despite doing as God has told him to do. However, notice the words he uses, “his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.” What Jeremiah is saying is that even if he wants to withhold his words or prophecies, the urge is too strong to stifle.  He uses the word, “fire” because the heaviness and urgency he feels to prophesy cannot be contained.  A fire is a consuming entity which if not squelched by water, it reaches and burns everything within distance.

That is how we as Christians should treat our walk with Christ.  Living in this Christian life should not be relegated to being separated from those who are in darkness, but it should also involve an active participation in sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  The Gospel of Jesus Christ is often coined as, “The Good News” because the death, burial and resurrection of Christ is indeed good news.  It is good news because, Jesus’ death on the cross broke the power of sin over our lives.  We are no longer condemned eternally because we have Jesus Christ as the advocate or the one who took our place by taking the penalty for us.  The only thing we must do is confess our sins, accept Christ as our Lord and Savior, and live in obedience unto God.

However, we are living in an age where there is a staunch opposition against the things of God.  While human history has given direct evidence of persecution against Christians, it seems that even more so now those in Christ are being challenged. Even in America, we are seeing more instances of Christians that are being marginalized because of the Godlessness that is entrenched in our society. We are also seeing a watering down of God’s truth for the sake of appeasing the majority. Pastors and church leaders have become muzzled while, in exchange, church membership began to be the focus instead of providing the truth of God’s word.

We must understand that God did not call Christians to be silent, but to profess Jesus Christ and Him crucified before a dying world.  Just as Jeremiah could not hide the truth, we should not hide God’s truth.  The Apostle Paul says in Romans 1:16 (NIV) “For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.” Paul among others during his time understood the mission but also the critical nature of sharing the Gospel with the lost.

A generation of people are now being taught that you can sin without consequence. It is now the trend that your own truth is what matters, in addition to the “live and let live” mentality.  Now, it is deemed disrespectful if you were to tell someone about their lifestyle in an attempt to change how they live. The Bible makes it clear in 1 Corinthians 2:14 (NIV) the following:

“The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that come from the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them because they are discerned only through the Spirit.”  This means that those who are not living by the Spirit of God are unable to accept the truth that comes from God’s word.  However, that does not mean that God cannot convict someone’s heart.  The job of every Christian is not only to live a life that is acceptable unto God, but to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to those who are lost.

Remaining in silence in the face of opposition, insults, and criticism from non-believers only dampens the message of the cross.  Jesus Christ died and rose again for all sinners, which includes you and I.  Even when persecution comes, we who are in Christ should continue to spread the good news.  The good news is like a panacea or a remedy for a medical condition.

Sin and disobedience unto God can be likened to a disease.  It is a condition which not only separates all who are unrepentant from God, but it causes physical and spiritual damage during life.  The end result of a life that is not surrendered to God through Jesus Christ is one that spends eternity in Hell, separated from the presence of God.  However, the remedy is Jesus Christ.  If Christians who are truly following God, fail to exemplify and speak the truth of God to others, then it is as if we who have been cured are allowing those in their illness to die.

Jeremiah like other prophets could not stand and watch nations that were Godless, burn and suffer because of disobedience without warning the people and the Kings.  Although each prophet’s declaration and warning came true, they understood that those who heard God’s truth would be spared if they chose to repent and turn from their wicked ways.  The number of those who choose to perish might be greater than those who choose life, but the point of sharing the message is to give everyone in the vicinity an opportunity.  The opportunity has been given to you and I.  If you don’t know Jesus, you can be spared from the penalty of sin and disobedience.  Christ is the remedy for a broken life.  Accept His gift of salvation, and you will have a life that will remain in the safety of a loving God.

Living Water to Satisfy Your Thirsty Soul

08 Friday May 2015

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ID-10054397H20 or most commonly known as water, is an essential source of nourishment and refreshment to quench one’s thirst. Have you ever felt so thirsty, that you were immediately refreshed and rejuvenated after drinking a glass or bottle of water?  Since our body is more than 60% water, it is imperative that we all drink daily to avoid dehydration.  Even as it relates to plant life, water is a necessary source in order to live.  It is the element of nature that represents life and wellness.

However, even spiritually the concept of water can be examined through the term, “Living Water”. In the book of John 4: 1-15, Jesus and a Samaritan woman are having a conversation at a well. He asks her in verse 7 to give Him a drink.  However in verses 9-10, she says that she is a Samaritan and points out that Jesus is a Jew.  At that time period, Samaritans were seen as less than or inferior because of their heritage, being that they were “biracial” (Samaritans were of Jewish and Pagan ancestry). So, because of this, it was uncommon and discouraged for Samaritans to associate with Jews. Of course, to Jesus this did not matter – so they have a dialogue in the following verses of John 4: 10-13:

“Jesus answered her, “If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water.”Sir,” the woman said, “you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his livestock?”Jesus answered, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

What Jesus is offering to the Samaritan woman, is much greater than what she was searching for.  The Samaritan woman was thirsty in the physical, but there was an obvious need, spiritually.  Jesus understood that the Samaritan woman was not whole but rather she was spiritually dehydrated.  Thus he uses the term, “Living Water” which meant that Jesus himself provides the nourishment that satisfies eternally.  Jesus says in verse 14 “whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” Jesus provides the living water that you and I need, in order to be whole and satisfied. 

Often times in our society, there are so many distractions and temptations that we are bombarded with.  Daily, the media pushes the “latest and greatest” devices that are “must haves”.  As a result, many buy into what is promoted, because they are searching to be satisfied and fulfilled in what the world has to offer.  However, as the scripture says in Luke 6:21, “Blessed are you who hunger now, for you will be satisfied.” God desires that we seek Him to be filled, because in and of ourselves, we are empty.

Jesus has made Living Water available to each individual that is thirsty for it. What is the Living Water?  The Living Water is the the presence of God which not only gives us peace, but satisfaction.  Just as there is refreshment when we drink natural water, there is a refreshment that surpasses all understanding when we are in God’s presence.  Once we have tasted of God’s presence and the Holy Spirit, then the temporary things of this world will no longer matter.

Money, sex, drugs, and other trappings which are promoted in our sin filled world, lead to a life of ruin and malnourishment.  Our soul is meant to be satisfied by God, because we were made in His image. We were made and created to worship God.  However, it is the sin that cuts the tie between God and humanity. Satan will never tell you the damage that can be and will be done if you are constantly seeking after the things of this world.  1 John 2:15 admonishes us not to love the things of this world.  The reason is because Galatians 6:8 says that if we sow to our flesh, we will reap corruption or death.  This is both a spiritual and physical death.

Christ provides the life that we are all in need of.  As Jesus said in John 14:6,  “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”  Jesus Christ offers each individual the opportunity to have life and to have it in abundance. Seeking after the riches of this world, and temporary satisfaction will always leave you dry.  A life in Christ, is what will institute a healthy and nourished way of living.  Are you thirsty?  Do you find yourself unfulfilled and wandering from place to place to seek peace?

If so, then you are in need of the Living Water.  The Living Water is what God provides through the presence of the Holy Spirit.  Jesus Christ is the one who bled and died for you so that you would never thirst again.  The reason that the world groans and writhes in discontentment is because those in the world, do not have the Living Water.  They are partaking of a well that runs dry.  The well of life, the spring of life, is the one place that will bring healing and everlasting joy.  That place, can only be found in Jesus Christ.  So, if you find yourself thirsting, take a drink of the Living Water and you will find that you shall never thirst again.

Being Alert to the Signs of the End Times

07 Thursday May 2015

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ID-100297350The world that we live in has and continues to change constantly as each day passes. Day after day, year after year, and decade after decade, brings with it the ever closer coming of Jesus Christ.  Some call it, “The End of the World.”  While others use the phrase, “The End Times”  or “The Last Days” to describe the intensity and the actual events that are associated with the 2nd coming of Christ.  Jesus Christ came during what is known as “the first advent” which is the first coming.  The first advent signified Christ being born, his death, burial, and resurrection.

According to Acts 1: 9-12, Jesus ascends to Heaven after He gives instructions to the 12 Disciples.  However, in the entire chapter of Matthew 24, Jesus tells His Disciples of various signs of the end of time as we know it to be.  The signs given will eventually lead to “the second advent” or the second coming of Jesus Christ.  What are the signs of the times?  How do they correlate to what is happening today?  First, let’s look at key areas to determine just how critical today’s time has become:

1. The Increasing wickedness of humanity – 

2 Timothy 3: 1-7 says the following:

“This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. For of this sort are they which creep into houses, and lead captive silly women laden with sins, led away with divers lusts, Ever learning, and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.”

If you read that entire passage, isn’t it startling at just how true much of that is today? Certainly, we have seen perilous times in the past, but the truth is that what we are seeing from today’s generation is far worse than in years and even centuries past. There are various examples of the moral decay that has taken root in not only America but around the world. Onlookers who watch the tragedies that take place in their own neighborhood, city, and state are attempting to answer the proverbial question, “Why is this happening?” The answer lies in the scripture above, which states that the last days shall bring perilous times.

Even in America, laws have become established which are now enforcing the blatant sin that was once thought to be detestable in the eyes of God.  All around the world violence is increasing, because of how close we are to the 2nd coming of Jesus Christ. Of course, the Bible makes it clear in Matthew 24 that no one knows the exact time period, but the intensity of the sinfulness is an indicator that points to just how close we are coming to the end of this age.

2. Natural disasters will grow in severity – 

In the latter part of verse 7 in Matthew 24, it says, “There will be famines and earthquakes in various places.” On April 25th, 2015 an Earthquake struck Nepal, killing over 7,000 individuals.  The key number is, over 7,000.  This was a tragedy that many scientists conclude that they saw coming – however, the fact that over 7,000 individuals would perish over a few days span says that we are seeing a major sign of the imminence of Jesus Christ’s return. Even as you read this, there has been recent tornado activity, flooding, and severe thunderstorms that have taken place in the state of Oklahoma.  Daily there are examples of natural disasters which intensify each time it occurs. Some would argue that we have always had severe weather, but what is known is that as each year passes, the severity increases. Part of it is also due to the damage that humanity’s sinfulness has done to the Earth.  God called humanity to have dominion or rule over the Earth, but to do so with honor and respect by being a good steward over the Earth’s resources.

3. Technology use and its influence – 

In Daniel chapter 12, there is also a scriptural reference to the end times. Daniel 12 says,

“At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. But you, Daniel, roll up and seal the words of the scroll until the time of the end. Many will go here and there to increase knowledge.”

The key verse is verse 4 which says “Many will go here and there to increase knowledge”.  This means that in the last days as it was prophesied unto Daniel, that humanity will increase in knowledge. Over decades, we have seen technological advances that were once thought impossible.  Now, technology has inserted itself into just about every area of our lives.  However, it is this very aspect of life, that will be used to create a global system.  Mass surveillance, encrypting data, and tracking human whereabouts is a part of the plan to create a one-world order.  This is what will spur a one world currency that will be put into place so that the anti-christ will have control. (See these scriptures about the anti-christ – Revelation 13:13, 2 Thessalonians 2: 3-4, Daniel 7:5) In the book of Revelation (Revelation 13: 16-17) the number 666 is given. In some way, technology will play a role in receiving the “mark of the beast” during what is known as the Tribulation period. However, the point is that technology, as it is being used today, plays a part in the signs of the end times.

As time continues onward, we will see these signs among others not listed which will intensify.  However, the main thing to be aware of is that it isn’t too late to gain safety in Jesus Christ.  Amidst all of the chaos, the growing control that world governments are seizing over its citizens, we who are in Christ have safety from the perilous times. Knowing that the Holy Spirit is still in the Earth, is an assurance in knowing that we can be protected from the evil times that we live in. Only in Christ, will you have ultimate victory and safety.  Be prepared by having your spiritual life assured, and knowing that there isn’t a safer place to be than in the hands of God.  For, the coming of Jesus Christ is nearing every single day.

Reaching Those In Darkness Through Jesus Christ

07 Thursday May 2015

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ID-100106138If you have ever sailed through a large body of water, you may have noticed that a device called a “lifesaver” is usually needed in the event of an emergency.  Within every commercial ship, lifesavers are available so that anyone who falls overboard, can be rescued from the danger of drowning.  Even lifeguards utilize these devices to assist in bringing a drowning person back to safety.  This device is meant to ensure safety, but to also ensure that the possibility of perishing is nonexistent.

Salvation as a concept can be essentially the same as using a lifesaver.  The truth is, all of us are in need of a savior.  John 10:10 says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”  In this scripture, “The thief” refers to satan.  Satan desires to destroy all that is good, which also includes destroying and stealing life from humanity.  However, in this same scripture, Jesus says that He has come so that we might have life and have it to the full.  This means, that Jesus came, died and rose again so that you and I might live a life of abundance.

The message of salvation is one of redemption.  It is the redemptive power of Jesus Christ which gives everyone an opportunity to know God, and to be rescued from our sin.  It is our sinful nature that separates us from having a relationship with God. According to Romans 6:23 it says, “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The Apostle Paul is saying that the penalty of sin is death, but not just a physical death but a spiritual death.  When we as humans are not in Christ, we are dead, spiritually.  However, the latter part of that verse says, the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ.  To be in Christ, is to have life which not only includes physical life but spiritual life.

When it comes to reaching those who are in darkness, it is the duty of every Christian to actively pursue the message of Jesus Christ.  In thinking about the example of a lifesaver, Christ is the lifesaver for humanity.  Sin and worldliness represent the thrashing waves of an ocean.  It also represents the depth of the water which if one does not have a lifesaver, they will likely drown unless they are able to swim.  However, if you are not in Christ and you have not experienced salvation, then you cannot swim in the depths of a decaying world.

All around us, there is a steady display of a world that is perishing in decadence. If you were to turn on your local or national news, you would see murder, threats of terrorism, weather-related tragedies, immoral and ungodly behavior.  Not only are the very things we see absolute signs of the coming of Jesus Christ (Read Matthew 24) but these are behaviors and occurrences which are based in sin. The very things that you and I see, is a result of a wicked and perverse generation.

However, the good news is that Jesus Christ is the remedy.  He is the lifesaver because he addresses our need for a savior. The purpose of the body of Christ is not merely to exist as a collection of believers.  However, it is to pursue those who are in their sin to provide them with the “lifesaver” which is Christ.  In Mark 16:15 it says, “And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.” Jesus was speaking to the 12 Disciples when he gave them a charge to spread the good news unto all of the world.  That same call to the Disciples is the same call that every Christian has upon salvation, and that is to spread the good news. What is the “good news”?

The good news is that Jesus Christ came and has given humanity an alternative to Hell and destruction.  Even as it relates to daily living, a life in Christ is more productive than a life without Him.  God wishes that no man perish as it says in 2 Peter 3:9.  We who are in Christ, have the awesome responsibility of sharing God’s love with what we say, and how we live.

For those of you who are not in Christ, you can know what true love is by accepting Jesus as your savior.  It is your sin that separates you from truly knowing God.  Before you take your last breath, you can know where your destination will be after this life.  Will it be in the presence of a Holy God where there will be rest and safety?  Or will it be in Hell which is a place of darkness, anguish and separation from a loving God?  No one has to leave this Earth to perish.  The choice is up to each individual.  However, even we who are Christians must demonstrate and spread the message of Jesus.  God loves each person so much, that He gave his son Jesus Christ to take our sin and exonerate us from wrongdoing. The lifesaver is available to all.  Spread the message of God’s saving grace, or if you haven’t already, accept the gift of salvation that is readily available to you.

The Salt of the Earth

07 Thursday May 2015

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ID-100311902Salt is a mineral that can be used in multiple ways.  For example, most who desire added flavor to their food will usually add salt within or on the content of what they are consuming. Salt in its most basic purpose can be used to add to something which acts as an enhancement.  Whether it be to add salt to french fries, soup, or any sort of fish or poultry, salt is designed to incorporate an added touch to what would otherwise be bland in taste.  As it regards food, salt can also be used as a preservative which slows the process of spoiling. However, salt does not just exist for the purpose of added flavor or preservation – it can also be used for medicinal purposes.

For centuries, salt has been used to cleanse or purify any wounds sustained by an injury. When salt comes into contact with an open wound, it acts as a sanitizing agent which will eventually bring healing to the wound.  Though the initial contact will produce pain, the reward will be that of a wound that will not only heal but infection becomes less likely to occur.  Even before the modern age of technology in conjunction with medicine, salt was and continues to be a simple form of medication.  Just as salt is meant to add flavor in addition to being a healing agent, the Bible makes it clear that every Christian is, “The salt of the Earth.”  What does this phrase mean?

The first part of Matthew 5:13 says, “You are the salt of the Earth.”  In that scripture, Jesus was speaking to those who are Christ followers or those who have chosen to align themselves with God through Jesus Christ.  Jesus says that all Christians are the salt of the Earth. Metaphorically speaking, Jesus was saying that we who are truly called and are followers of Christ are the additives or the changing agents in this broken and sin filled world.  All Christians are meant to make a visible and lasting difference in the world we live in.

1 Thessalonians 5:5 says, “You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness.” This means, that we who are Christians are to be different from the world. The whole point of being a Christian or a Christ follower is to be separated from the world because we are called out of darkness. To be the salt of the earth, it means that the life of every Christian is to affect and infect the world with the light and love of Jesus Christ.  As the Apostle Paul said in the scripture above, we who are Christians are children of the light and children of the day. There should be a delineation between those in Christ, and those in the world.  If there isn’t a visible difference between the two sides, then here is what will happen:

The rest of Matthew 5:13 says, “But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” Jesus is saying (metaphorically) that if the salt loses its saltiness, then it is rendered ineffective.  This can be applied to the life of every believer.  If Christians are no longer living as “the salt of the Earth” but rather aligning with the ways of this world, then we as a body of believers are no longer effective.

How many times have you witnessed or heard of corruption within church structures? Pastors that have swindled the money that is freely given by their congregation.  Or church members that have shown grace and mercy on Sunday morning, but the rest of the week they live as if their confession is the complete opposite.  In so many words, what many in the world have seen is hypocrisy.  This is not to say that there is a perfect church, or that you or I do not make mistakes.  However, Jesus gives us clear meaning to the “salt of the Earth” statement.

He says that we are the salt of the Earth, which means once we have accepted Christ and received the Holy Spirit, we are then endowed with the ability to bring healing and change to the world, through the power of God. The sad thing about many churches today is that religion and even carnality has become incorporated into what was and is supposed to be a sanctified body of believers.  Many have made a mockery of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, believing that it is permissible to live in sin, and yet name the name of Jesus Christ.  That is not what God has called Christians to do.

Matthew 5:14-16 continues with, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Every Christian who is truly blood washed in the blood of Jesus Christ, and who has made a commitment to follow Christ, is the light of the world.  We carry the light of Christ with us if we are truly connected to God through Jesus.  Much of the world scoffs at Christianity in part, because there are many examples of hypocrisy and sinfulness within many churches worldwide.  How powerful would it be if the body of Christ understood the magnitude of our individual and corporate witness to a dark and dying world?  The message to the believer is, that you are the salt of the Earth.

Our lives are meant to be a testament of the love of God for a broken world.  The only way that this love can be shown is to follow God in obedience and to be separated from the things of this world.  Salt as a mineral is effective in its nature because it is uniquely different from other minerals and spices.  We as Christians should be different from the world.  Otherwise, if sin within our lives is acceptable, then what does the crucifixion of Christ mean?

Jesus died and rose again for every sinner.  All can be saved by accepting His sacrifice and confessing the sin that has been committed.  This is the gift of salvation for you and I.  It is available to all, but we who are already in Christ must give others a reason to see the glory of God in how we live and what we profess.