WHAT'S IMPORTANT?
Think with me....after you become a Christian, that is, you have been born into God's family by believing in Christ as your Savior, ---after that, what are the two most important things you need to know and believe?? I have been asking some folks their opinion on that (important) question. What would you say?
One young man said "Grace, and God's love." Good answer I thought. Another said, "knowing God and trusting Him." Another good answer. But I believe what we need to believe more than anything else, is what God says about being "controlled by the Holy Spirit," [#1] and what we are to do as Christians [#2].
Number one is the foundation and essential of all Christian living and fruitfulness: -- letting the indwelling Holy Spirit fill us, control us, that is: to "abide in Christ," to walk in the Spirit, to walk in the light as He is in the light. Jesus said, "It is the Father, living in me, doing His work." It is not 'doing my best, with God's help.' It is learning how to let God live His life, through me. That...is a big deal!
Then...Number two,. we need to do what God has planned for all believers to do, and that is "to make disciples." That is what Jesus said in Matthew 28.19; and then He added (V 20) a statement of huge importance...."I am with you always." [See Mar 8, 2008 Goodstuff) The Holy Spirit enables us to do what God desires [make disciples], and is the source of our wisdom, guidance, and adequacy. We are "new creatures in Christ" because of His indwelling presence, and He never leaves.
#1...Walk in the Spirit
#2...Make Disciples
Is that your strong emphasis. Is that the clear teaching of the church today?
bh March 29, 2008
Web: www.bertsgoodstuff.com