Denying God's Judgment

Romans 1:32

Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.

 

 

Thoughts for Today:

 

Most of you know I have a heart for evangelism. One of the more interesting progressions of discussion and thought I have with people, which either leads to salvation or rejection of God's saving grace, has to do with the subject of our passage today: God's final judgment. While many acknowledge man's sinful nature, it seems difficult for some to broaden this idea toward recognition of ultimate accountability and consequence for the way we have lived our lives. Most people don't like the idea that God is going to judge them for their sin. However, just because we don't want to be judged (or even believe in the concept) doesn't mean it isn't going to happen.

If you jumped off a building, just because you don't believe in gravity doesn't mean you won't crash into the street below. And what if while falling (before you hit ground) you used as proof of your non-belief, "See I jumped and nothing happened, therefore gravity does not exist." Obviously that line of thinking would be ridiculous, yet this is exactly what Paul is discussing in our passage today -- knowing what we're doing is wrong, doing such things anyway, and approving of others who do them as well. In other words, if we truly believe in eternity and "know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death" then why don't we turn from our sin toward God? Why is it so difficult to accept the grace and forgiveness offered by God through the sacrifice of His Son Jesus Christ? I think the answer is simple yet complicated -- sin (pride, arrogance, stubbornness, hardheartedness, greed, selfishness, etc). Man does not want to give up the freedom to serve himself (his sinful nature) rather than God. Unfortunately, it is a path that will only lead to death.

 

 

Questions to Ponder:

 

Is there a sin God has called to your attention which you have not addressed? 

What is God speaking to you about right now?

The Lord is calling each one of us into a relationship with Him --

however we must choose Him --

this requires us to turn from our sin, repent and ask forgiveness.

No sin is too great.

And any sin can be overcome with the Lord's help and power of the Holy Spirit.

All we need to do is desire the Lord.

Will you ask?

Will you seek Him?

Me? Evangelize?

Posted by The Pocket Testament League                                                            

 

 

One simple action can help change the world. Check out the newest video from The Pocket Testament League—a reminder that God is using everyday people to plant the seed of God’s Word. 

Whether you’re new to The League, or have been involved for decades, take 2 minutes to refresh yourself on the simple (yet life-changing!) mission of The Pocket Testament League.

Please share this video with your friends. The video is available in 8 different languages . . . our prayer is that believers across the globe catch the vision of sharing pocket-sized Gospels of John. Will you help us?

Watch & share the video! ►

“So that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow . . . and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.” ~Philippians 2:10-11

The Key to Church Growth

Church Growth by John Finkelde    

"Visitors"

That’s it.
The one key.
Without visitors, church growth will never happen.



So here’s a few questions to ask:
1. How does our Facebook page or website look to a visitor?
2. what do we do with visitors once they arrive?
3. what do we do with visitors once they leave?
Work hard on those answers & your church will grow.

Imparting "Charisma" Gifts

Romans 1:11

I long to see you so that I may impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong

 

 

Thoughts for Today:

 

In our passage today, Paul is speaking of the "charisma" gifts of the Spirit (Greek translation of "spiritual gift") from 1 Corinthians 12:1-11, which include: gifts of "...wisdom, ...knowledge, ...faith, ...healing, ...miracles, ...prophecy, ...distinguishing between spirits, ...speaking in tongues, ...and interpreting of tongues". I realize this might be a controversial subject, however I thought it would be prudent to point out Paul's letter to the Romans was addressed to believers (those already saved) for whom he wanted (his words) to: "impart to you some spiritual gift to make you strong". This might imply (as some believe) that spiritual gifts come at, during, or following saving.

Regardless of differing theologies on the topic of spiritual gifts (how, when or if they are received), Paul clearly instructs believers to: "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts" (1 Corinthians 14:1); with this stipulation: "Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that build up the church" (1 Corinthians 14:12).

Today I am only challenging you to read your Bible and make up your own mind on this subject -- allow God to lead.

 

 

Questions to Ponder:

 

Every revival begins when people begin to open, read, and study their Bibles.

Too often our minds are made up or closed to certain subjects because of church doctrine. I think it is the responsibility of every Christian to listen to God speaking to us individually through His Word. Remember, Christianity is not a religion of rules -- rather it is a personal relationship with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

 

Acts 7:51, "You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears!

You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit!"

Are you or have you been resisting the Holy Spirit?

Will you submit to His will and leadership?