Jesus Christ teaches:
Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.
Born Again... An Event or A Process???
In John 3, Christ continues teaching.
15- For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.
16- For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.
Think on the word "believeth". What does it mean to truly believe in him? Is "belief" a one time proclamation, or a life long demonstration? How does Christ distinguish between those who believe and those who don't? Let's read on and see what He says.
17- He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.
18- And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkeness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.
Here, He tells us that through our deeds, we demonstrate what it is that we love, whether it be light or darkness.
Here, He tells us that through our deeds, we demonstrate what it is that we love, whether it be light or darkness.
19- For every one that doeth evil hateth the light, neither cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
20- But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
I love my Father and His Son with ALL of my heart. Daily I rededicate my life to them. Despite my best efforts, there are absolutely times which I "do, speak or think evil". Does my lack of perfection demonstrate that indeed I don't believe in Him? Does it mean that I am one who will be condemned?
Let's bring this scripture into context with last week's study. As we discussed, each of us fall overwhelmingly short of Christ's perfection. This is why His commandment to repent is essential to our spiritual progress and rebirth. Attempting to hide our deeds in darkness shows a lack of love, trust, and believing of our Savior Jesus Christ. Presenting our deeds to Him in truth, both the good and the bad, allows His grace, or enabling power, to rest upon us. As we strive to continually turn our will to His and forsake our sins, or repent, we demonstrate our trust and belief in His ability to make us whole and ultimately to save us! Thus, we progress on our path of spiritual rebirth and gradually our natures are changed. We become more like Him and experience the "mighty change of heart". This is ALL because of His goodness, His righteousness and His mercy! I praise His most holy name!
For next week I invite you to study, Luke 4:14-32; 5; 6:12-16 and Matthew 10.
Let's bring this scripture into context with last week's study. As we discussed, each of us fall overwhelmingly short of Christ's perfection. This is why His commandment to repent is essential to our spiritual progress and rebirth. Attempting to hide our deeds in darkness shows a lack of love, trust, and believing of our Savior Jesus Christ. Presenting our deeds to Him in truth, both the good and the bad, allows His grace, or enabling power, to rest upon us. As we strive to continually turn our will to His and forsake our sins, or repent, we demonstrate our trust and belief in His ability to make us whole and ultimately to save us! Thus, we progress on our path of spiritual rebirth and gradually our natures are changed. We become more like Him and experience the "mighty change of heart". This is ALL because of His goodness, His righteousness and His mercy! I praise His most holy name!
For next week I invite you to study, Luke 4:14-32; 5; 6:12-16 and Matthew 10.
I have personally experienced the mercy of a loving Savior and hope to continue in his love all of my days. I know that he is constant and sure. The choice is mine to receive.
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