The Marks of a Believer
Should a Christian be different? That is my thought for today. The reason is that I spoke to a guy the other day who said he was "saved" (a term used in the church to signify that you are a follower of Jesus Christ) but I had my doubts. The reason for that doubt is that this man drank alcohol daily, and got drunk on a regular basis (Ephesians 5:18). He smoked tobacco (1 Thessalonians 5:22 / 1 Corinthians 6:19), had sexual relations with various partners (Romans 1:29), hit the clubs, and cursed like there was no tomorrow (Ephesians 4:29). These are his good points! What he is in denial about is that his religion is not Christianity, but rather a religion of self. Sin has separated him from the truth of who he really is! Colossians Chapter3 clearly advises us that we as "believers" must put away such things. If we do not show a difference in our lives, then we present no hope to fallen man. Our lifestyle (orthopraxy) has to match up with who we say we are (orthodoxy), and what the bible says that we should be or you are just dreaming about being a follower of Christ. If we are to be saved, we are saved through grace, and the mercy and blood of Christ alone, but that does not mean that we can float along and act any old way we want once we claim that salvation and confess Christ. The Word says that not everyone who says "Lord, Lord" will enter in to heaven. I can say that I am a mechanic, and live in a garage, but I am not a mechanic unless I can fix things! Being in a McDonald's does not make me a happy meal, neither does saying that you are something you are not. The proof is in the fruit. Today, remember that people are watching, and are looking for hope. Give them what they are looking for. -Pastor Jory
You can find more at Jory's Blog @ www.theliftnashville.com
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