Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Just a few simple words...
The gospel is not something that once responded to suddenly becomes for others. The same gospel that SAVED you is meant transform you into the likeness of Christ. Don't confuse the bible as something for others. When you read of sinners count yourself the same. I far to often gloss over texts and assume them for someone else.

Jesus said in Luke 15,"I tell you that in the same way there will be more rejoicing in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who do not need to repent."
He also says in chapter 5 of Luke," It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. I have not come to call the righteous but sinners to repentance.

These are just two of the MANY instances where Jesus makes it clear he didnt come for those who think they are ok, those that are in no need of saving. To accept the good news means that you must first have accepted the bad news..That you and I are sinners in need of saving. Salvation can only come if you need to be rescued from something. Once saved to live a life that says you are fine and have 'fire insurance" is to yet again miss the point of the gospel. Accepting the truth daily that you are still in need of a savior rather than taking his gift and purchase of your sins as license to feel good about yourself is not the gospel. The gospel is the power of God to save and to transform broken lives that are in constant need. To consider yourself one of the ninety-nine is to simply say, "I dont need Jesus". To say I am healthy is to say,"The gospel is no longer for me but for sinners."

Neglect the gospel, christians and you will neglect people. I am so guilty of doing this so often. Look at yourself and see what God has done and what he is and wants to continue doing.

Sanctification is not becoming a better you, its becoming more aware of the One who is better and serving him. The gospel is not about me and what it does for me.

God is the gospel and it is simply all about what HE IS DOING.

Count yourself a sinner and the grace of God takes its rightful place. It will stretch you and you will no longer have to live a life of attempting to please. You can rest in the fact that no matter how sinful you or I are he has made a way where we couldnt.

HE MUST BECOME GREATER I MUST BECOME LESS-John 3:30