Changed By None

But even if we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel to you than what we have preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again, if anyone preaches any other gospel to you than what you have received, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:8-9 (New King James Version)

The preaching and acceptance of “other” gospels abound today…just as they did in Paul’s day. Paul makes his point clear and goes so far as to repeat it twice for emphasis. It doesn’t matter who the message is coming from, if it varies from what the Bible says both the message as well as the messenger are wrong. Period! No exceptions. It has to be that way because the result is the difference between Heaven and Hell.

It is not a matter of Paul’s opinion and it is not a matter of our opinion. People will attempt to say that is what it all comes down to. If that were the case there would be no truth and no security for the believer. I have seen people get irate when they are told there is no other way to Heaven outside of Christ. They seem to think that is a denominational, religious, man made view. But that is not true! Jesus is the One who said in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No man comes to the Father but by me.” I don’t believe it because my church teaches it (although my church does teach it). I believe it because that is what the Bible says. I have to have the Bible as my foundation of truth.

None of us are to look at our words, other people’s words, or even an angel’s words as being on par with God’s Word. We are all fallible but God is not. Our words do not hold the same permanence or importance as God’s Word. Not only can we not elevate our words, we cannot elevate our experiences. Having an experience, such as a visit from an angel, cannot be a reason for second guessing or changing what God’s Word says….especially in the area of salvation.

One of the reasons I am so adamant about this is because I know my own heart and the bent in me toward idolatry if I don’t guard myself. I am too easily drawn toward experiences and personalities. Even when what is being said or experienced is lining up with Scripture, I still need to keep my eyes on God and I still need to keep the pages of the Bible open before me. People and angels are God’s messengers but may I never forget the One who sends them and may I never allow them to become a god to me.

Father, although I will continue to learn from others, may I hold on to You with one hand and on to your Word with the other. Center me between Your heart and Your voice. My allegiance is to You. My attention is on You. Keep me focused on You and Your Word. Amen.

Thy Word - Maranatha Singers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SLHWFpSlq4

Getting into God's Word and letting God's Word get into me one truth at a time.

The Crowd

Therefore the soldiers did these things. But standing by the cross of Jesus were His mother, and His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. John 19:25 (New American Standard Bible)

The crowd that witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus Christ was quite diverse. There were the soldiers who had violently abused Him and proceeded to drive the nails in His hands and feet. There were the scorners who mocked Him as He hung on the cross. There were the religious leaders who fought against Him during His three year ministry and had Him crucified because of their jealousy and false accusations. There were the onlookers who hailed Him as King one week and then cried out, “Crucify Him” the following week. There were His followers, disciples, and mother. Some spewed out words of hate while others wept tears of sorrow. Some despised Him while others clung to Him. I wonder where I would have stood in that crowd on that day.

I see a lot of differences that are simply the backdrop to incredible similarities. Jesus died on the cross for EVERY person who was there whether they were His enemy or devoted follower. He didn’t look at some with love and others with hatred. He died for them all and desired that all would come to know Him as Savior. Each was born in sin and possessed a sin nature and Jesus shed His blood for the sin that resulted. No one needed less of His blood shed for them. No one, not even His own mother, stood in their own righteousness before God, because no person is without sin except the One who hung on the cross in sinlessness. Each person, no matter their opinion or relationship to Jesus, was in need of a Savior. They were in need of a substitute. And that aspect has not changed to this day.

I have often heard it said that the ground is level at the foot of the cross and I believe that to be true. As we approach the Easter season which culminates with Resurrection Sunday, we either approach it as ones who have put our faith and trust in Christ alone for salvation or ones who need to. But just as He did on the cross, Jesus looks at each of us with love and a desire to be known. He extends the offer of salvation to ALL. And then He offers intimate relationship from that point on.

It took but a few moments for me to receive Him as my Savior but I will spend my life developing that intimate relationship. Last night found me spending two hours reading the book of John straight through and that experience brought many things to light that I felt I was seeing for the first time. May each day be filled with “I know Him a little better now” moments.

Father, the cross made it possible for me to even call You Father. Thank you for helping me to see the truth about salvation and life! Amen.

What We Received

To open their eyes so that they may turn from darkness to light and from the dominion of Satan to God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins and an inheritance among those who have been sanctified by faith in Me. Acts 26:18

What a list! These words were spoken by Jesus Himself to Saul. They were recorded in Scripture for our ears as well. They reveal four incredible things that were instantaneous the moment we trusted Christ. Salvation is more than just becoming a child of God with access to Heaven. Though those two things alone would be blessings enough. And the fullness of salvation includes more than these four aspects. But the list is worth taking in this morning and reveling in its meaning.

Each of us walked in a spiritual darkness prior to knowing Christ. The things we see and understand about God now, were the very things to which we were blind. That is why when you speak with a non believer about God or the Bible they can’t seem to see or grasp what you are talking about. The seeds are being planted no doubt, but they live in a darkness to the truth…just like we did. God is the One who can eventually open their eyes.

Transfer from Satan’s dominion, kingdom, authority, and rule to God’s dominion, kingdom, authority, and rule is the greatest move you will ever experience. Contrast the two domains and what do you see lacking in Satan’s? Love, mercy, grace, forgiveness, tenderness, security, and much more. He is a ruthless, dishonest dictator who knows there will one day be an end to him and his reign. God is a loving heavenly Father, who will never have an end and neither will His kingdom.

Forgiveness of sins! It is not possible outside of Christ. Just imagine if you still carried every sin you ever committed. And not just the sin but the guilt, shame, and condemnation as well. In Christ it is gone…all of it. Although we still have a sin nature, the forgiveness continues!

Finally, an inheritance with fellow believers! Eye has not seen nor ear heard all that God has in store for those who know and love Him. No earthly will contains such promise and wonder. What true wealth awaits us!

Father, I rejoice in these gifts this morning. What a different life I would have if I had never trusted Christ. Thank you! Amen.