The Biblical Path of Life

Tag: Salvation

  • The Love of God

    “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

    Luke 19:10

    The world often presents us different views of God. One is a God of love who accepts everyone and everything. The other is a God who is an unimpassioned, silent, and a cold abstraction, who has no thought of what happens to or with mankind. Both of these are completely wrong according to God’s Word. God created man in His image (see Genesis 1:26). “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7). This should reveal much to us. After He created Adam and Eve in the garden, He fellowshipped with them (see Genesis 3:8). That is until sin separated between man and God (see Genesis 3:9-11). God is righteous and holy (see Psalm 145:17), and He judges with righteousness and truth (see Psalm 96:13). Sin separates from Him. Therefore, God immediately promised the way of restoration for that broken fellowship, caused by sin (see Genesis 3:15). From that day forward, they were to believe God’s promise, by faith, and look forward to that day. God kept that promise. He sent His only Son to provide the opportunity for any one to have that relationship restored. “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). This reveals the love that God has toward each person that has ever been born.

    It is important to recognize that the wrong idea about who God is will allow for wrong ideas about who we are. Because God created us, certain things about us are set and cannot be changed (think height, gender, skin color, etc.). Most importantly, each person is born a sinner. “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). We cannot change the fact that we are sinners. However, God sent His only Son to deliver us from that sin (see John 3:16). Understand what it was that happened when Jesus died upon the cross. “For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Jesus took the sin of each person upon Himself when He died upon the cross. “Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father” (Galatians 1:4). Jesus took that sin and paid the penalty to set us free and to restore that broken relationship between man and God. Remember, the penalty for sin is death. “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23). Yet God offers a free gift. It is important to recognize what it is that God desires. “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” (Romans 10:8-10). Acknowledging that one is a sinner, and that Jesus died to set each one free from the consequences of sin, the choice to receive or reject the gift of life that God offers is then left up to each individual. Once one hears, God wants each person to believe. Each person is required to make a choice.

    God sent His only Son to purchase a people for Himself. “Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works” (Titus 2:14). John (one of the Apostles) describes what he learned because he trusted in Jesus. “That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3). John recognized that the relationship with God could be restored with Him because of His Son Jesus. John wrote about Jesus so that all could understand the heart of God in sending His Son, Jesus. “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20:31).

    However, if one rejects who God is, this will lead to a wrong life, heading on the wrong path, ultimately leading to the wrong destiny. “17.For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved. 18. 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 3:17-18). Why did God send Jesus? “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10).

    There are only two choices:

    Believe Jesus is God who came to forgive one’s sin and to restore the relationship with God.

    Believe not, rejecting the free gift of life through Jesus, and continuing in sin. That one will spend eternity in darkness (in the lake of fire) separated from God (see Revelation 20:11-15).

    What did you choose?

    Make the right choice: How to be saved

  • Choose Christ

    “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.”

    John 20:31

    Jesus will be the final judge for each and every person (see John 5:22 and Revelation 1:18). Jesus gave us the terms of salvation. “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life” (John 5:24. See also John 6:40). The eternity of each individual is determined by what they do with Jesus: whether or not one receives Christ as their Saviour is the deciding factor. Once one hears of Jesus, a decision must be made. That decision determines one’s destination: heaven or hell.

    Jesus told us His judgment of two people while He was still here on the earth. Most people remember the thief on the cross. “42. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom. 43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise” (Luke 23:42-43). Jesus declared this man’s eternal fate at that time. He would be with Jesus; for this man chose Jesus.

    The other man was Judas Iscariot. He is worth considering.

    In the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, many followed Jesus. Consider that Judas must have been one and heard Jesus’ teachings for he was called to follow Jesus. Judas walked with Jesus for about three years listening to Jesus teach. He saw Jesus heal many and saw Jesus for who He really is: the Son of God. “But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name” (John 20:31). Judas had just as much opportunity as the other disciples to fully commit his heart and life to Jesus. Remember the privilege he had as he walked with Jesus as the chosen twelve. “14. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, 15. And to have power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils” (Mark 3:14-15). Even with this, Judas needed to commit his own heart and life to Jesus. When Jesus asked His disciples a life-changing question, remember the answer given. “69. And we believe and are sure that thou art that Christ, the Son of the living God. 70. Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and one of you is a devil?71. He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon: for he it was that should betray him, being one of the twelve” (John 6:69-71). Jesus knew their hearts, and He knew that Judas had not truly believed. With this information, Judas still had to make the choice for himself: believe in Jesus or reject Him. This was a perfect time for Judas to change his heart. Instead he choose to be a thief. “This he said, not that he cared for the poor; but because he (Judas) was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein” (John 12:6). Judas stole money from Jesus’ ministry. He decided to make money betraying Jesus to the religious leaders (see Matthew 26:14-16). “And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, to betray him” (John 13:2). The devil put betrayal into his heart. But recognize that Jesus still offered him a chance to change his mind by letting Judas know that He knew Judas’ plans. Judas still had a choice. “Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dippedit. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon” (John 13:26). Jesus knew Judas’ heart. Judas could have chosen Christ, asking forgiveness right then. However, when Judas did not repent (change his heart and mind), remember what happened. “And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him,That thou doest, do quickly” (John 13:27). Satan had opportunity to enter Judas. Judas then betrayed Jesus.

    Remember part of Jesus’ prayer in the garden that night before He was crucified. “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12). Jesus knew that one of the twelve disciples would reject Him. “Yea, mine own familiar friend, in whom I trusted, which did eat of my bread, hath lifted up his heel against me” (Psalm 41:9; see also John 1:18). Yet Jesus called Judas to be one of His twelve disciples, ultimately leaving Judas the choice.

    “3. Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders, 4. Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood…” (Matthew 27:3-4a). Afterward, Judas was sorry; for he saw that he was condemned. But it was too late. His choice had been made. Jesus declared that Judas was lost (the “son of perdition” see John 17:12).

    Many church goers appear to be in the same condition as Judas. Some have joined the choir. Others have a great part of service in their churches. They hear the Word of God preached and many sermons on redemption of what is required for salvation. Yet they continue in the same path, never choosing Christ. Just as Judas. For some, like Judas, they may wait until it is too late.

    Have you chosen to reject the sin of this world and accept Christ as your Saviour, choosing to walk with Him?

    How to be saved.

  • What it Takes

    “To him give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins.”

    Acts 10:43

    There are many that believe that one can live a good, honest life, doing good, and their good deeds will allow them entrance into heaven. Yet the Bible teaches contrary. Jesus declared there is only one way. “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). One must receive Christ, for good deeds will not allow one to go to heaven, where Jesus’ Father is. There is a great example of this truth found in the book of Acts.

    We are introduced to a man named Cornelius. Read how this man is described. “A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God alway” (Acts 10:2). Devout means “one who reverences aright, shows piety (a profound reverence, love and obedience toward God, often shown through prayer, worship and faithful service) toward God.” He was a very religious man. However, religion will not allow one to go to heaven. Cornelius appeared to be close, but close does not count. Yet it does appear that Cornelius was doing all that he knew to do in order to please God. “But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him” (Hebrews 11:6). He lacked saving faith, but Cornelius was diligently seeking after God. Because of this, we can recognize God’s intervention. In the case of Cornelius, God sent him an angel with a message. “And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God” (Acts 10:4). God heard the prayer of Cornelius, seeking after God. Notice that the angel did not deliver the means of salvation to Cornelius. The angel only gave a message to send for a man named Peter. “He lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the sea side: he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do” (Acts 10:6). Peter would tell Cornelius what he needed to do. It is always interesting to note that angels are not given the job of delivering the plan of salvation. Angels deliver messages, but God has given Believers the privilege of sharing the Gospel Message with the unsaved.

    Although there is much relevance to the salvation of Cornelius, recognize that although he was a good religious man, that was not enough. When he sent for Peter, Peter came to tell Cornelius what he must do. While Cornelius was waiting for Peter to come, he gathered his kinsmen and near friends to hear this special message (see Acts 10:24, 33). Peter then preached Jesus to Cornelius (see Acts 10:34-43). “To him (Jesus) give all the prophets witness, that through his name whosoever believeth in him shall receive remission of sins” (Acts 10:43). When one believes in Jesus, immediately he receives remission of sins. Remission means “forgiveness; to release sins from the sinner. This required Christ’s sacrifice as punishment of sin, hence the putting away of sin and the deliverance of the sinner from the power of sin although not from the presence of sin. That will come later after the resurrection when our very bodies will be redeemed (see Romans 8:23).” A special thing to notice in the salvation of Cornelius, and his family and friends: immediately when they believed in their hearts (even while Peter was still preaching), they were saved. God knew that in their hearts, they each believed by faith, Jesus, and they immediately received salvation. They proceeded to magnify God and showed what had happened in their hearts through the act of baptism (see Acts 10:46-48).

    Yes, there is much more to the importance of the salvation of Cornelius, and his family and friends. Nevertheless, it is imperative to recognize that when Cornelius was trying his best to please God, seeking after Him, he learned that it was not enough. However, God sent one to tell him what must be done to be received by God. When Cornelius and his friends and family heard what they were lacking (faith in Jesus), once they believed in their hearts, immediately God accepted them. They had not known what to do until Peter taught them of Jesus and remission of sins (see Acts 10:43). People today, must understand that being good or religious is just not enough. Everyone needs to know what it takes to be truly saved. Just as Peter told Cornelius what to do, this is each Believer’s job today: share the Gospel Message of Jesus and the necessity of remission (forgiveness of sins).

    Do you know what it takes to be saved?

    If you do, understand the importance of sharing the Gospel Message of salvation only by faith in Jesus?

    How to be saved.

  • Fight the Good Fight of Faith

    “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.”

    1 Timothy 6:12

    Christians tend to believe that to fight the good fight of faith means to persevere through difficulties in life such as frustrations in our daily lives, illnesses we do not understand, job losses, deaths or many other such trials that occur. Although these are good times to persevere, consider the “good fight of faith” of which it is referring to in the following verse. “Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses” (1 Timothy 6:12).

    • Fight means “the task of faith in persevering amid temptation and opposition.”
    • Fight means“contest for victory or mastery; the evangelical contest against the enemies of man’s salvation.”
    • Faith means “a technical term indicative of the means of appropriating what God in Christ has for man resulting in the transformation of man’s character and way of life; i.e.: namely, Christian faith; a firm and confiding belief in Jesus and His gospel.”

    Note the importance of “persevering amid temptation and opposition.” Persevering is important. However, it is important to recognize what it is that we are to persevere in: Faith. Christian faith (a firm belief in Jesus and His Gospel) that changes our lives. We have become a new creature in Christ. “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). With this new life, we find there is a new battle before us.

    First we must have Christ-like behavior; faith: “the transformation of man’s character and way of life”. Often, we are our own worst enemies. We do not put away the old life, and all of the things that went with that old life, to fully commit to this new life in Christ. Often Paul taught Believers to put off the old man and put on the new. “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). (See also Ephesians 4:20-32.) It is a daily battle, yet as you remain faithful to the new life in Christ, the daily fight can become easier to win. But it takes perseverance and faithfulness. This reminds me of the following verse. “Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling” (Philippians 2:12). This verse does not mean that you “work” for your salvation. The words work out means “to accomplish; finish; toil; commit.” Christians are to allow the salvation (that they already have through faith in Jesus) to be manifested (revealed by how they live Christ-like) in the expression of this new life. It is the actualization of what one already possesses! Those who are growing in their spiritual lives, fighting the good fight of the faith, do not need someone “watching” them to be sure they are living a right life before Christ. Maturing Christians choose to do right no matter who is there, knowing that God sees all. Why is this so important? Christians need to live Christ-like for their own benefit and to encourage non-believers to want what Believers have through Christ. How are we able to do this? “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13). Christians are to remember that it is up to us to allow God to work in us. This is part of our fighting of the faith.

    We also must live a Christ-like life before the world. Christians are to “lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses” (see 1 Timothy 6:12). For Christians, this eternal life begins the day we give our hearts and lives to Jesus. We are to “lay hold” on this truth. We choose to walk this new life in Christ. “6. As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: 7. Rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving” (Colossians 2:6-7). As we walk in this new life in Christ, we are an example to all who see us. As good as it is to walk, fighting the good fight of faith, in this Christ-like life, we are also to profess this new life to others as we live it. “5. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. 6. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man” (Colossians 4:5-6). What good does it do to live a life and not tell anyone else how to have what we now possess?

    Each person who is saved (been called by God) is to persevere (with a fight) in that Christian life – for that life has been transformed by a confidence and belief in Jesus and His Gospel. It takes much work. There are many enemies. Do not be your own worst enemy. Fight the good fight of faith.

    Have you made the decision to fight daily to appropriate the Christian faith into every aspect of your being?

  • Do Not be Ignorant

    “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.”

    1 Corinthians 10:11

    There are different kinds of people in this world. Some learn by experience, and some learn by example. I do not have to put a key into an electrical socket to understand (know) that I will receive a shock that I do not want to experience. However, a small child left unattended may put a key into a receptacle and receive quite a shock! Understanding this difference, consider the following.

    In the Old Testament, we have so many examples from which to learn. At Corinth, Paul was dealing with a group of Believers who were having difficulties – especially with their Christian walk with Christ. He had already taught them many things, next he wanted to give them some examples from history. “Moreover, brethren, I would not that ye should be ignorant, how that all our fathers were under the cloud, and all passed through the sea” (1 Corinthians 10:1). Ignorant means “not to know (through lack of information or intelligence); by implication to ignore (through disinclination).” Paul taught that Believers are to not be ignorant. So, Paul made a list of some important things they must know.

    He wanted Believers to see the picture in the Old Testament that can be compared to a Believer. All who were “under the cloud” had just left Egypt where the death angel had “passed over”. God’s people who were in the house under the blood (see Exodus 12:13), did not suffer the judgment the Egyptians did. They were now under the cloud (see Exodus 13:21) and then “passed through the sea”. They had left Egypt. “And were all baptized unto Moses in the cloud and in the sea” (1 Corinthians 10:2). Because they had stepped out by faith into the dry bed of the sea, they were “saved” from their enemy (the Egyptian army) which was destroyed. Now being identified with Moses, whom God had chosen to lead them out of bondage in Egypt, they were God’s people. “3. And did all eat the same spiritual meat; 4. And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ” (1 Corinthians 10:3-4). God supplied all of the provisions that they needed in their wilderness journey.

    Recognize that this is much like a picture of salvation for a Believer. Egypt is a picture of the world and bondage from which we are delivered by the blood of Christ through faith (see Romans 5:8-10). We then reveal what happened to that Believer by the picture of baptism (see Romans 6:3-11), identifying with Christ. Just as the Israelites were separated from Egypt by the Red Sea, Christians are to be separated from the world. It is then we recognize that Jesus has living water (see John 4:13-14), Jesus is the Bread of Life (see John 6:35), He is the Light of the World (see John 6:1), and the Resurrection and the Life (see John 11:25). Jesus gives all of the provisions we will ever need to live this Christian life.

    Paul reminded them of what happened when they entered into the wilderness. “But with many of them God was not well pleased: for they were overthrown in the wilderness” (1 Corinthians 10:5). Because they set their hearts upon things contrary to what God had for them, God was not pleased with them, and they remained in the wilderness far longer than God had intended.

    He then gave a list of five important things of which to be cognizant: 1 Corinthians 10:6-10:

    • “6. Now these things were our examples, to the intent we should not lust after evil things, as they also lusted.” This reminds them of when the Israelites were not satisfied with the manna God provided (see Exodus 16:15 and Numbers 11:4). Warning: Do not want evil things of this world. Read God’s Word to know what is needed for the Christian’s life.
    • “7. Neither be ye idolaters, as were some of them; as it is written, The people sat down to eat and drink, and rose up to play.” This was a reminding of the worship of the golden calf (see Exodus 32:4-8). Warning: Do not put anything in your life in the place of the one true God.
    • “8. Neither let us commit fornication, as some of them committed, and fell in one day three and twenty thousand.” This was to remember those who received the counsel of Balaam and joined unto Baalpeor (see Numbers 31:16 and Number 25:1-9). Warning: Do not succumb to a wicked life before God.
    • “9. Neither let us tempt Christ, as some of them also tempted, and were destroyed of serpents.” This was a reminding of when the Lord sent fiery serpents among the people for speaking against God and Moses (see Numbers 21:5-9). Warning: Believers are warned against tempting Christ (see Hebrews 10:26-31).
    • “10. Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured, and were destroyed of the destroyer.” This is to remind them of the many, many times they murmured against God and Moses during the days in the wilderness (see Exodus 15:24; 16:2, 7-12; 17:3, Numbers 14:27-29, etc). Believers are to be content with God’s provisions (see Hebrews 13:5-6).

    These instances reveal the downward steps some chose: to lust, be idolaters, fornicators, tempters, and murmurers. The final straw was when they refused to enter into the land God had promised them. It was for this reason, the people remained in the wilderness for forty years and all over the age of twenty died there (except for Joshua and Caleb who believed God). There are many Believers today who live their Christian lives in these continual wrong choices, remaining in the “wilderness”, never reaching the potential of a victorious Christian life. “Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come” (1 Corinthians 10:11).

    Do you recognize a downward step in your Christian life that is keeping you from a victorious Christian life?

  • 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