The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Salvation

  • Wake Up!

    “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.”

    Romans 13:11

    For some reason, Samson is one of the most memorable judges (see Judges 13-16). He was known for his great strength and mighty victories over the Philistines. Most probably remember when he lost his strength. “And she (Delilah) made him sleep upon her knees; and she called for a man, and she caused him to shave off the seven locks of his head; and she began to afflict him, and his strength went from him” (Judges 16:19). Samson was asleep when he lost his strength. Delilah had asked him many times about his strength. His resistance to her continual cries waned. “And it came to pass, when she pressed him daily with her words, and urged him, so that his soul was vexed unto death” (Judges 16:16). It was then that he told her all his heart (see Judges 16:17). Samson had not stood strong in the Lord, as God’s people are often told they must do. He relinquished, and he slept.

    What is the importance of staying awake today, and not sleeping? “And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed” (Romans 13:11).

    • Awake means “to be awakened; used figuratively meaning to become attentive to one’s dangerous position and to the salvation of God (see also Ephesians 5:14).”
    • Sleep means “sleep, that is, (figuratively) spiritual torpor (torpor means dullness; laziness; sluggishness; stupidity).”

    It is easy to become distracted by the lures of this world, and sleep spiritually. It is then that we do not recognize the enemy that lurks, seeking to destroy the Believers. What are we to do? “Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober” (1 Thessalonians 5:6). Remember what Jesus reminded His disciples: “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). This is great counsel. Our spirit is willing, but we must remember that our flesh is weak. Christians must give much attention to their spiritual walk with the Lord, remaining faithful each and every day!

    The world today is not that much different than it was in Bible times. It is still important for Believers to stand strong in the Lord. “Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might” (Ephesians 6:10). This verse is right before the listing of the Christian’s armor; our protection from the attacks of Satan (see Ephesians 6:11-18). One cannot “sleep” if one is wearing this armor. Nevertheless, Satan brings ruin to many Christians by rocking them to “sleep”, flattering them into a good opinion of their own safety, causing them to forget to stand strong in the Lord and not their own strength. It is then that Believers sleep. Christians should never be lulled to sleep. Remember, Satan actively contends with God’s people. It takes constant effort to remain in the steadfast, favorable presence of the Lord. God’s Word often warns Believers to be aware of Satan’s constant prowling about them, seeking to destroy (see 1 Peter 5:8).

    There is something important to remember. “… for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed” (Romans 13:11).” Salvation is in three different tenses in the New Testament:

    • Past: salvation from the penalty of sin.
    • Present: salvation from the power of sin.
    • Future: salvation from the very presence of sin – this happens when we reach heaven.

    Keeping this in mind, Believers are to focus on the present salvation – recognizing we have the power to keep from sin right now. “But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life” (Romans 6:22). We are servants to God, not servants to sin.

    Because we are free from sin, we are to put away that sin. “The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light” (Romans 13:12). The night is the time while Jesus is out of this world, remembering that the prince of the power of the air now works in the children of disobedience (see Ephesians 2:2). The day is when Jesus will return and establish His reign of righteousness. We then are to walk as a Christian should walk. “Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying” (Romans 13:13). How can we “walk honestly, as in the day”? Put off that old life of sin. “That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts” (Ephesians 4:22). Then put on that new life in Christ. “But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make not provision for the flesh, to fulfil the lusts thereof” (Romans 13:14). Remember that we are not to allow any part of that “old man, which is corrupt” to remain with us. It would be much like carrying an old, dead carcass around with us. It would be burdensome and stink! If Believers would look at their lives before Christ in this light, it would be much easier to walk in the newness of life that Jesus has given us.

    Believers are to not succumb to the old life. We are commanded to stay awake!

    Do you recognize the importance of awaking out of sleep, understanding that our salvation (in the future) is very near?

  • Hardhearted, Deaf, and Blind

    “For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.”

    Acts 28:27

    Paul preached the Gospel Message of Jesus. He went on three specific missionary journeys, traveling to many towns and countries to deliver the message of salvation only through Jesus Christ. Acts chapters 13-28 tell of Paul’s travels, ending with his trip by ship to Rome as a prisoner. His heart’s desire was to see the Jews believe upon Jesus and accept Him as their Messiah (Christ), their Saviour. However, many rejected his preaching of the Gospel Message of Jesus. “4. And he reasoned in the synagogue every sabbath, and persuaded the Jews and the Greeks. 5. And when Silas and Timotheus were come from Macedonia, Paul was pressed in the spirit, and testified to the Jews that Jesus was Christ. 6. And when they opposed themselves, and blasphemed, he shook his raiment, and said unto them, Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean: from henceforth I will go unto the Gentiles” (Acts 18:4-6). Can you sense his frustration that his people, whom he loved dearly, would reject the only salvation through Jesus? Because of this rejection, he went to the Gentiles to teach them of Jesus.

    When Paul finally made it to Rome as a prisoner, he was met by a group of Jews who wanted to hear what Paul had to say. There were misunderstandings as to why he was imprisoned by the Romans. “For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain” (Acts 28:20). He wanted them to understand that because the Jewish religious leaders rejected Jesus as the Messiah, “the hope of Israel”, he had been arrested. He had an opportunity to tell this group of Jews about Jesus. Throughout the Old Testament, God had promised to send One who would restore the relationship between God and man, caused by Adam’s initial sin in the garden (see Genesis 3:15). That separation has been between God and man since then. However, God sent His only Son, Jesus (see John 3:16), as the One who could restore that relationship. “Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved” (Acts 4:12). Jesus is the only way to salvation. Paul spent many years teaching this truth to people, winning many people to the Lord. However, there were many who rejected Jesus – especially among the Jews. He recognized this would happen, for hundreds of years earlier Isaiah had been told the same basic thing (that the people would not hear see Isaiah 6:9). This saddened Paul, especially because as much as he tried to persuade the people of the truth about Jesus, most of the Jews still rejected Him. Paul then quoted from Isaiah: “For the heart of this people is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; lest they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, and understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them” (Acts 28:27). Waxed gross means “to thicken, that is, rendered callous.” Because the hearts of the people where callous to the truth of Jesus, their hearts were hardened. Worse yet, they closed their eyes to the truth of Jesus’ salvation. This message from Isaiah (called Esaias in the New Testament) is quoted in each of the four Gospels. Remember an easier one to understand: “39. Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said again, 40. He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart; that they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them” (John 12:39-40). The Jews had rejected Jesus so often, hardening their hearts and refusing to see, that they were no longer able to believe. Paul understood this. However, Paul recognized that many Gentiles believed in Jesus. “Be it known therefore unto you, that the salvation of God is sent unto the Gentiles, and that they will hear it” (Acts 28:28). Salvation is available to any who will “hear it.”

    Have you noticed that the same thing seems to be happening again today? Almost anywhere one goes today, people’s hearts have “waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed”. There comes a point in each person’s heart when they have rejected Jesus so often, hardening the heart and refusing to see, that they are no longer able to believe. This is a scary place for anyone to reach. “(For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now isthe accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.)” (2 Corinthians 6:2). When one hears the call of the Gospel Message of Jesus, one should immediately respond and not delay! Now is the day of salvation – not tomorrow. If you have loved ones whose hearts appear to have “waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed”, don’t give up on them. Continue to pray. It may be that you can be instrumental in bringing them to Christ.

    Have you heard the call of the Gospel Message in your heart, or shared it with others?

    Have you understood the importance of responding to that call, receiving Jesus into one’s heart and life before it is too late?

    How to be saved

  • I Was Blind, but Now I See

    “He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see.”

    John 9:25

    Jesus had another opportunity to teach the people. “And as Jesuspassed by, he saw a man which was blind from his birth” (John 9:1). We learn that the disciples thought this man was blind because of sin – his or his parents. Jesus wanted to dispel an old thought – that all sicknesses, injuries, or birth defects are caused by sin. “Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his parents: but that the works of God should be made manifest in him” (John 9:3). Jesus taught that sin was not the cause of this man’s blindness. In the case of the blind man, it was so “that the works of God should be made manifest in him.” Manifest means “to become or be made visible or manifest; make known.” God had a plan for this blind man to receive his sight, bringing Jesus into his life.

    Not only was the blind man to understand what God was doing, it was important for all to know that Jesus was there to do those works of God. “4. I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.5. As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world” (John 9:4-5). Jesus would not be walking on the earth for long, and He had work to do (see John 5:36; John 17:4). As long as Jesus was there, He was the Light. “6. When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind man with the clay. 7. And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam,(which is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and washed, and came seeing” (John 9:6-7). This blind man could see.

    From these events, we understand this man was born blind so that at this time in history, God would be revealed to this man and to the world. God’s plan was now known. Because he obeyed the words of Jesus, he could see. This man, who had only known darkness, now understood the importance of light.

    When the people saw that this blind man could now see, they had many questions. When they asked him what happened, he explained (see John 9:8-11). When the Pharisees asked him what happened. He told the story again (see John 9:13-16). They wanted to know who he thought Jesus was. “They say unto the blind man again, What sayest thou of him, that he hath opened thine eyes? He said, He is a prophet” (John 9:17). At this point, this is all he knows about Jesus. The Pharisees asked his parents (see John 9:18-23). When the Pharisees told him to give God the glory because they declared Jesus was a sinner, read the man’s response. “He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I know not: one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I see” (John 9:25). Because the Pharisees still do not believe or understand, they asked him again how he could see. “He answered them, I have told you already, and ye did not hear: wherefore would ye hear it again? will ye also be his disciples?” (John 9:27). This outraged them. “We know that God spake unto Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is” (John 9:29).

    Watch this man’s understanding and faith begin to grow: “30. The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet he hath opened mine eyes. 31. Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth. 32. Since the world began was it not heard that any man opened the eyes of one that was born blind. 33. If this man were not of God, he could do nothing” (John 9:30-33). This man who was blind is beginning to see the Light: he recognizes that the Man who healed him was of God. After these statements, the religious leaders cast him out.

    But Jesus found him. “35. Jesus heard that they had cast him out; and when he had found him, he said unto him,Dost thou believe on the Son of God?36. He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might believe on him? 37. And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and it is he that talketh with thee.38. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him” (John 9:35-38). This man became a Believer.

    This blind man did not know anything about Jesus; he was ignorant. This is how most people are when introduced to Jesus. They really know little or nothing about Him. When the man began to understand what Jesus had done for him by giving him sight, his faith began to grow. As he explained to the Pharisees what happened, he began to understand – really see. When faced with Jesus again, he believed. When one recognizes that Jesus is the only way to salvation, and willingly responds in faith, this is the simple Gospel Message.

    The Pharisees could see, yet they would not acknowledge Jesus. Because they could see and rejected Jesus and the truth of who Jesus is, their sin remained (see John 9:39-41).

    Have you chosen to “see” and remain in your sin?

    Or

    Are you able to “see” Jesus is the Light, and the only way to salvation?

    The way to salvation.

  • The Marks of a True Believer

    “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;”

    John 8:31

    Jesus taught the people the way of salvation – only through true belief in Jesus that brings a change of heart and life (see John 8:1-32). At this point, many believed. “As he spake these words, many believed on him” (John 8:30). This is the first step of salvation. However, Jesus wanted them to understand it was more than a “mental assent” to Jesus. Belief demands a changed life that begins in the heart (see Romans 10:9-10). In these teachings, Jesus taught them much more than the way of salvation. He revealed to them the ways to identify true salvation – in their own lives and even in the lives of others.

    We remembered the step of salvation: “As he spake these words, many believed on him” (John 8:30).

    Jesus continued with the first mark of true salvation: “Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him,If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed” (John 8:31). Indeed means “truly; of a surety.” For those who truly give their hearts and lives to Jesus, making Jesus the Lord of that life, it is only natural that one must continue in Jesus’ Word (see 2 Timothy 3:14-17). One must read and learn more about the Bible. As one learns more about the Bible, that life is changed from the inside out. One learns to walk like Jesus (see Colossians 1:10; 2:6-7, and Ephesians 5:8).

    The next thing Jesus emphasized was knowing the truth: “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32). Make you free means “to liberate; the result of redemption.” Knowing the truth of God’s Word gives Christians much freedom. Jesus fulfilled the Law for us, setting us free to walk with Him according to His Word (see James 1:22). Christians are to continue in that liberty. Paul later emphasized the importance of keeping one’s liberty and not returning to the bondage of the Old Testament Law (see Galatians 5:1).

    The Pharisees challenged Jesus: “They answered him, We be Abraham’s seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?” (John 8:33). If you know the history of the Israelites at all, this statement might make you laugh. This nation had been in bondage many times through the years. For example, Moses led them out of bondage in Egypt (see Exodus 5-14). Think of the times of the Judges where God had to send deliverers many time to free the from bondage. Even in the days of the Pharisees who challenged Jesus, God’s people were under the bondage of Rome.

    The bondage the Pharisees were referring to was something completely different than what Jesus was trying to get them to understand. “Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin” (John 8:34). Jesus came to set them free from the law of sin and death (see Romans 8:2). With that freedom comes an understanding that we are to no longer be servants of sin. Later, Paul taught more on this subject (see Romans 6:12-14). All of Romans chapter six will help in the understanding of the importance of not allowing sin to rule a Christian’s life. Christians are to yield to righteousness.

    Jesus taught that true Christians will hear God’s Word: “He that is of God heareth God’s words: ye therefore hear them not, because ye are not of God” (John 8:47). People had come to Jesus before this to hear the Word of God (see Luke 5:1). Jesus later calls Christians His sheep: “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). We know that the Bible is the Word of God.

    A Believer must keep His Word, for it is a proof of the salvation in the heart. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying, he shall never see death” (John 8:51). Why is it so important to keep His Word? “21. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.22. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world? 23. Jesus answered and said unto him,If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. 24. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father’s which sent me” (John 14:21-24). Manifest means “to disclose (by words): appear, declare (plainly), inform.” Not only does keeping His Word show that we love Him, but Jesus said He would manifest Himself to those who keep His Word. Obedience to God’s Word is a key mark of one who is a true Believer (see 1 John 2:3-6).

    When others see you, do they find the marks of a true Believer?

  • The Truth Shall Make You Free

    “And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free”

    John 8:32

    In John chapter eight, Jesus was teaching the people. While He was teaching, the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery. They proceeded to tell Jesus what the Law of Moses said should be done. She should be stoned. They asked Jesus what He said about it. “This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not” (John 8:6).

    “So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them,He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” (John 8:7). Jesus just went back to writing on the ground. “And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst” (John 8:9). Jesus did not accuse them. He did not have to say anything else. Jesus waited for them to recognize that each and every one of them was a sinner. This is the place that every person who hears Jesus must come: recognize that each person is a sinner (see Romans 3:23).

    “10. When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee? 11. She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her,Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more” (John 8:10-11). Jesus did not condemn this woman (see John 3:17). He told her what she must do: “go, and sin no more.” She must have a change of heart and life (see Romans 10:10; Hebrews 10:26, and 2 Peter 2:20-22).

    Jesus then taught the people more. “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying,I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). He not only wanted them to recognize He was the light, but all who followed Jesus fully would have that light. This is the second “I Am” statement Jesus made (see the first in John 6:35). All Jews knew that “I Am” is God (remember Moses learned this in Exodus 3:13-14). Jesus is the Son of God.

    However, these Pharisees would not acknowledge Jesus for who He was. Because Jesus understood this, see what He told them. “Then said Jesus again unto them,I go my way, and ye shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither I go, ye cannot come” (John 8:21). All who reject Jesus will die in their sin. “I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins: for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins” (John 8:24). This is the same today. Each person must acknowledge that Jesus is God, the only one who can take away sin and give the gift of eternal life (see Romans 6:23).

    “28. Then said Jesus unto them,When ye have lifted up the Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do nothing of myself; but as my Father hath taught me, I speak these things” (John 8:28). Jesus wanted them to understand what it was that He came to do: to pay the penalty for man’s sin by His death on the cross (see Romans 5:8, 1 John 2:2, and 1 John 4:10).

    “As he spake these words, many believed on him” (John 8:30). At this point, many understood and believed. However, Jesus wanted them to understand it was more than a “mental assent” to Jesus. Belief demands a changed life (see Romans 12:1-2). “31. Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him,If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;32. And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). The truth of who Jesus is and what He did for me sets me free from sin and death (see Romans 6:14, Romans 8:2, and 1 Corinthians 15:56-57).

    Many of the people Jesus was speaking to believed that it was enough that they were literal children of Abraham, of whom received the promise from God to be His people (see Genesis 12:1-3). “They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham’s children, ye would do the works of Abraham” (John 8:39). Jesus had already taught the people the only work one can do for salvation: “28. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we might work the works of God? 29. Jesus answered and said unto them,This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent” (John 6:28-29). If you remember, Abraham believed in the Lord (see Genesis 15:6).

    Jesus wanted them to understand this required a change of thinking. “Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day: and he saw it, and was glad” (John 8:56). Before they had looked forward to the Messiah. Jesus was teaching them that Messiah had come, for Jesus was whom they had been looking.

    Do you notice anything familiar in these teachings of Jesus? Jesus taught the people the way of salvation – only through true belief in Jesus that brings a change of heart and life.

    Have you recognized you are a sinner, who needs Jesus to set you free?

    The Way of Salvation also found in Romans

  • Offenses Will Come

    “But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.”

    Matthew 18:6

    Jesus came offering His kingdom to the Israelites. They had been looking for the Messiah. They expected their Messiah to sit on the throne of David and free them from the Roman government. However, they did not understand what it was that Jesus was offering them. He came to give them eternal salvation, restoring the relationship with God that had been severed. Jesus would establish the perfect kingdom, when they recognized Jesus as God, and receive Him as their Messiah. However, the established religious system, the rulers in that system, and the people in general rejected Jesus and what He had to offer them.

    Nevertheless, Jesus’ disciples understood who Jesus was for when He asked them, read Peter’s reply: “And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). Because they were beginning to understand that, Jesus began to teach them more. “From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and be raised again the third day” (Matthew 16:21). Even though Jesus taught them this, they did not understand.

    Therefore, Jesus began to teach His disciples of the kingdom of God that was beginning to be formed. It was a kingdom that could not be seen with human eyes. When the Pharisees asked Jesus about this kingdom of God, read His reply: “And when he was demanded of the Pharisees, when the kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said,The kingdom of God cometh not with observation” (Luke 17:20). Not with observation means “you cannot see it with human eyes.” Jesus went on to say: “Neither shall they say, Lo here! or, lo there! for, behold, the kingdom of God is within you” (Luke 17:21). Within you means “it is located in your heart and affections; not external.” That is one reason why we refer to being saved as “asking Jesus into your heart.” You cannot see it with your eyes.

    When the disciples asked about the kingdom of heaven, Jesus began to explain. “1. At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? 2. And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, 3. And said,Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. 4. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. 5. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. 6. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea” (Matthew 18:1-6). As Jesus began teaching His disciples of the kingdom of God, He began by explaining one must be humble, as a little child. To children, things are simpler, less convoluted. The Gospel Message is very simple – one must just believe – just as a child. Salvation begins with a new birth (see John 3:3). In other words, simply believe and receive without question – just like a child. Offend in Matthew 18:6 means “to craftily entice or lead to ruin, allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin (see also Mark 9:42 and Luke 17:2).” It is a terrible thing to “craftily entice or lead to ruin, allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin” – especially a child! Jesus warned that it would be “better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea”. Just as it is a terrible thing to do this to a child, Jesus wanted us to understand that it is just as bad to offend a new Believer (Christian). It is a very dangerous thing to discourage a new Believer or by “allowing someone to adopt a course in which he will unknowingly come to mischief and ruin”. Every Christian should be very protective of new Believers and help them in any way to encourage them in this new Christian life. They are babes in Christ, who need to be fed, encouraged, and taught about the things of God. All Christians should help protect them from false doctrines or behavior that is unbecoming to a Christian who lives for Christ.

    Because salvation is so simple, and available to whosoever will believe (see John 3:16), Jesus gave a warning. “Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come; but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh!” (Matthew 18:7). Offences means “things which lead others to turn away from God’s salvation and thus to come to ruin (see also Luke 17:1).” It is a very serious thing to turn anyone away from God’s salvation.

    Do you lead others toward salvation and encourage new Believers by living a Christ-like life, teaching them the things of God?

    Salvation

  • The Way of the Cross

    “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.”

    Galatians 5:16

    It is always important to remember salvation is by faith in Jesus and His atoning death upon the cross. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). Once one trusts in Jesus, it is incumbent upon that new Christian to make Jesus Lord of that life. We then understand that the Christian life is not just difficult; it is impossible to live apart from the Holy Spirit. “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). We are taught to walk in the Spirit. The only way to do this is to learn to deny oneself and do what Christ would have us do. “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20). It is with these thoughts that I awoke the other morning singing the following song. As I looked up the words to it, I was amazed at the three-fold teaching.

    I Must Needs go Home by the Way of the Cross

    Author: Jessie Brown Pounds (1906)

    “1. I must needs go home by the way of the cross;
    There’s no other way but this.
    I shall ne’er get sight of the Gates of Light
    If the way of the cross I miss. [Refrain]

    2. I must needs go home in the blood-sprinkled way,
    The path that the Savior trod,
    If I ever climb to the heights sublime,
    Where the soul is at home with God. [Refrain]

    3. Then I bid farewell to the way of the world,
    To walk in it nevermore;
    For the Lord says, “Come,” and I seek my home
    Where He waits at the open door. [Refrain]

    Refrain:
    The way of the cross leads home.
    The way of the cross leads home.
    It is sweet to know, as I onward go,
    The way of the cross leads home.”

    I remembered the song teaching that salvation is only through the cross upon which Jesus died. “Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me” (John 14:6). If I miss Jesus, I miss – for there is no other way.

    As I read verse two, I recognized that it was teaching that I must walk in the way that Jesus walked: “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh” (Galatians 5:16). That is exactly what Jesus did. I am to follow His example.

    As I read the words to the third verse, I remembered that one day I will leave this world and all of its’ struggles, to live with my Lord forevermore. “These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God” (1 John 5:13).

    In all ways – salvation, walking, and living by the Spirit in this world, and looking forward to my future home – all are by the way of the cross. They each lead me to my eternal home. So the important thing for me to concentrate upon (once I have been saved) is to walk in the Spirit, and I will not fulfill the lust of the flesh. That is my daily job. Remember the fruit of the Spirit listed in Galatians: “22. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, 23. Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law” (Galatians 5.22-23). As I walk in the Spirit, I begin to produce that fruit, and my character becomes more like Christ. It is then that others can see Jesus in me.

    Have you chosen to walk in the Spirit, daily, producing fruit that changes your character to be more like Jesus?

  • Filled With the Spirit

    “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit”

    Ephesians 5:18

    Is Salvation all there is to the Christian Life?

    Because Christians have the Holy Spirit, we are to no longer walk in the flesh as the rest of the world walks: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). Christians have a new life, and we are to walk in it. If you belong to Christ, live like it.

    How do we live this new life in Christ?

    Christians are to understand what God’s will is. We are commanded to be “filled with the Spirit”.

    “17. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is. 18. And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:17-18).

    Because Believers are indwelt by the Holy Spirit at salvation, we do not need to get more of the Holy Spirit. We already have Him. However, the filling of the Spirit occurs when the Spirit gets more of the Believer. Paul preached to the Ephesians and saw many of them become Believers (see Acts 19). However, about eight years later when he wrote the letter of Ephesians to them, he taught them that they needed to be filled with the Spirit (see Ephesians 5:18).

    What does this mean?

    Understand the difference between the “gift” of the Spirit and being “filled” with the Spirit:

    • The Gift of the Spirit comes at conversion – when one is saved, the gift of the Holy Spirit is given: “Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost” (Acts 2:38). The Holy Spirit dwells within Believers: “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you…” (Romans 8:9).
    • Being filled with the Spirit comes at consecration: Consecration means “the solemn act of setting something or someone apart as sacred, holy, or devoted to God’s service.” “11. Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord. 12. Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. 13. Neither yield ye your members asinstruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members asinstruments of righteousness unto God. 14. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace” (Romans 6:11-14). They may be close together or years apart.
    • The Gift is the entrance of the Spirit: “It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life” (John 6:63).
    • Being filled is the exit of the old self: “9. Lie not one to another, seeing that ye have put off the old man with his deeds; 10. And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him” (Colossians 3:9-10). Obviously we cannot be full of the Spirit if we are half-filled with self.
    • The Gift is the birth of a new man: “Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and ofthe Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God” (John 3:5).
    • Being filled is the death of the old man: “22. That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23. And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24. And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:22-24). Many Believers have never put off the old man.
    • The Gift may leave us carnal Christians: “For ye are yet carnal: for whereas there is among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?” (1 Corinthians 3:3). It is tragically possible to live and die a carnal Christian.
    • Being filled makes us spiritual Christians: “But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his” (Romans 8:9). (You should read all of Romans 8:1-11).
    • The Gift of the Spirit is eternal – He abides with us for ever: “And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever” (John 14:16).
    • Being filled with the Spirit comes on submission and faith: “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God” (Romans 6:13).

    The first (gift) commits my soul to God; the second (being filled) commits my life, myself to God.

    Have you done this?

    Or have you committed the eternal soul to God and are holding back the mortal life?

  • Believe in Him

    “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.”

    John 3:15

    Almost everyone has either heard or memorized John 3:16:“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” However, have you ever stopped to understand what this verse really means?

    In John 3:16, we are to recognize the way in which God loved the world. Because sin had entered into the world, there was a breach between God and man. The penalty for sin is death (see Romans 6:23). There was only one way to bridge that separation and give life. Because God is a loving and gracious God, He sent His Son, Jesus, into the world.“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Romans 5:8). God gave His Beloved Son, Jesus, to pay the penalty for each individual person’s sin with His life. All one must do is believe upon Jesus, receiving this great gift. “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). Can you better understand this verse now? Read the next verse in that passage to understand even better as to why Jesus came: “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved” (John 3:17).

    After reading both of those verses, understand that the gift of the pardon for sin is offered – all one has to do is receive it. This pardon from sin is understood as a promise from God – but only for those who accept that gift. God wanted each person in the world to be saved from the penalty of sin, however God allows each person to make the choice: believe unto salvation or believe not (“He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God” John 3:18).

    Why would God, who is known for His great love, condemn people? Each person was already condemned because of that separation. God provided the way to be saved – leaving the decision up to each individual. People condemn themselves when they choose to not believe in Jesus (the Light, see John 8:12) and continue in sin. “And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil” (John 3:19). Those who choose to not believe, love darkness – because their deeds are evil. Surprisingly, many people enjoy sin.

    What if one chooses to continue in sin, rejecting the gift God offered? John summed up the consequences of rejecting this gift of Jesus in the last verse of that chapter. It tells what becomes of one who does not believe that Jesus came and died, living again, enabling Him to take away the sin of each individual who would only believe. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him” (John 3:36). This, too, is a promise.

    No one talks about the wrath of God anymore. What exactly is the wrath of God? It is mentioned most often in the New Testament. One clear understanding of it is found in the reading of Romans chapter one. In that chapter, one can understand that God’s wrath is holy and just in its’ indignation against sin. It is so much more than just anger at the willingness of people to continue in sin, it is extreme anger mingled with disgust or abhorrence of that sin.

    How can one escape the wrath of God. and choose this gift God offered? Remember what Jesus declared: “That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life” (John 3:15). It is declared simply in the Scriptures: “9. That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:9-10). Because one receives the Lord Jesus, believing by faith, that one will be saved from God’s wrath. “Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him” (Romans 5:9).

    Life is fleeting and short. No one knows what tomorrow may hold. It is up to each individual to decide. Choose life (eternal with Jesus), or receive the penalty for sin – the wrath of God abiding on him.

    Each person has a choice to make:

    • Believe on the Son and have everlasting life, or
    • Believe not the Son and have the wrath of God abide upon them.

    Have you chosen to receive the gift of salvation (life) by believing in Jesus?

  • Wisdom or Power?

    “That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.”

    1 Corinthians 2:5

    Paul began the first book of Corinthians addressing a problem. He wanted the Believers (Christians) to understand what was important: the preaching of the Gospel Message. Paul later summed up what that Gospel Message is in 1 Corinthians 15:1-4: “… that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day according to the scriptures:”. These are the basic truths of the Gospel Message. Paul emphasized the power that is in that salvation. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18). See the following to help understand what this verse means:

    • preaching means to speak intelligently about the word of the cross
    • cross means the whole passion of Christ and the merit of His sufferings and death
    • them that perish means exposed to eternal death
    • foolishness means foolishness or absurdity
    • saved means those who have obtained salvation through Christ and are kept by Him
    • power means a person in whom the power of God is manifested

    Jesus came to pay the penalty for “them that perish”, taking that eternal death away from any who would only believe. The “power of God” was then revealed in those who believed in Christ’s work on the cross: “the whole passion of Christ and the merit of His sufferings and death”. Each Believer was changed.

    There were a couple of groups in that day (and in our day) that could not get past this “foolishness” of the preaching of the cross. “For the Jews require a sign, and the Greeks seek after wisdom” (1 Corinthians 1:22). The Jews were bound in their religious system and the outward showing of the rituals of the Old Testament Law. The Greeks sought after wisdom. Wisdom means “the knowledge of how to regulate one’s relationship with God; wisdom (higher or lower, worldly or spiritual). What did Paul want them to understand? “But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumblingblock, and unto the Greeks foolishness” (1 Corinthians 1:23). The message of Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection would not be accepted by the “religious” Jew, for they were bound in their religious system, having to “do” something. The Greeks thought it was just absurd to believe that one must trust in Christ as apposed to intelligently gaining their own salvation, in their own way. Both groups did not understand that it is only through the cross, in the “power of God” (see 1 Corinthians 1:18) that one is saved. Paul further explained this to help them understand: “Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men” (1 Corinthians 1:25). Neither the wisdom of man or the strength of a religion can save one. It is only by faith in Jesus and what He accomplished on the cross.

    Paul explained this further. “1. And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. 2. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified” (1 Corinthians 2:1-2). Paul shared “Jesus Christ, and him crucified” which is the “the testimony of God”. Paul did not use fancy teaching or enticement to help them understand the Gospel Message. “4. And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: 5. That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). Demonstration means “manifestation”. Because Paul just preached the truth of Christ, a Believer’s (Christian’s) faith was not by man’s reasoning or wisdom. The Spirit of God is manifested, and one can choose to believe. It is then that the power of God is acknowledged in that life. We call this becoming “saved”. All men need the salvation provided by Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection. However not all will receive it. “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18). The preaching of the cross reveals the only means of salvation. Remember how Paul taught this in Romans. “8. But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; 9 That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. 10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation. 11. For the scripture saith, Whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed. 12. For there is no difference between the Jew and the Greek: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon him. 13. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved” (Romans 10:8-13). Salvation is not of any man – not even Paul. Each person must choose to believe by the correct faith – faith in Jesus’ completed work on the cross.

    Does your faith stand in the wisdom of men?

    Or

    Does you faith stand in the power of God?

    Click here to find the way to Salvation by faith.