This culture is in a tailspin. Most pundits want to dismiss the truth and convince us that all is well, but an honest look at any part of this culture reveals trends which range from disturbing to disastrous. Most people expect a "preacher like me" to rail against the evils which are so prevalent and pervasive. It is true the evil and works of darkness are destroying lives and negatively impacting our culture. That said, evil is doing what evil does. However, the works of darkness are no worse than they have been or were in times past. This begs the question: “why are things going so wrong?”
The Bible says, “It’s time for judgment to begin at the house of God” and the truth is, “Judgment has come to the house of God.” What this culture needs and the Lord God expects is for those who wear the name “Christian” to live like Jesus lived.
It was in the Upper Room less than 24-hours before His death that Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, love one another as I love you. It is in this way that the world will know that you are my disciples.”
By the way, it was in that same room where Jesus described this ‘unconditional love’. He said, “Greater love has no man than this that he lay down his life for a friend.” The day after speaking these words, Jesus lay in the tomb, dead because of His love for us.
According to Jesus’ life and words, He expects those who bear His name to demonstrate love life He did. Most of us who wear the name ‘Christian’ would argue that ‘we are a loving group.’ Yet, there is not one credible national survey I have knowledge of which lists love as a discerning characteristic of believers. Many other descriptive terms are offered but not love.
Remember, Jesus loved without compromising His truth. When the woman caught in adultery was brought to Him, He didn't ignore her behavior but neither did He condemn her. He showed compassion and insisted that she change her behavior.
Authentic Christianity has many characteristics but love is one of the first which should be seen. If you wear the name of Christ, do people see you as a loving person? If not, why not?
- Bro. Jerry Watts
(Checkout Pastor Jerry’s web site @ www.jerrywatts.net for audio and manuscript messages and more)
No comments:
Post a Comment