Christian

Love in Action

I previously defined Charity as love in action. That could easily be the same definition for Salvation. Salvation is God’s love in action. It is also our love in action.

In my preceding post, In the Mix,  I compiled a list of actions demanded of us in God’s plan of salvation. For sake of convenience and issues of readability, I did not offer scripture to back up those actions. The following should remedy that situation.

Jesus died teaching us how to follow the Father. John 8:28, John 14:9. Although he is the ultimate sacrifice for our sin (Romans 5:8-11), salvation does require effort on our part (James 1:22, Ecclesiastes 12:13). We have to accept Jesus as Messiah. Acts 8:36-37  We have to repent and be baptized by immersion in water by another in Jesus name (Acts 2:38) or in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:19). Acts 22:16, Mark 16:16. We have to strive to not sin. Hebrews 10:26-27. We have to confess future sins after baptism and forsake them. Proverbs 28:13, 1 John 1:9. We have to confess Jesus (Matthew 10:32-33) and teach others the Gospel (Matthew 28:18-20). We have to remain faithful until death. Revelation 2:10 Finally, as we are blessed, do it all with love. 1 Corinthians 13.

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Christian

Confusing Duty with Works

Many proclaim we are not saved by works, but by grace alone. They cite these verses found in Ephesians 2:8-9 KJV. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: [9] Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Does this mean we have no duty to our Master and Saviour? Absolutely not.

We have a duty to respect his sacrifice.

We have a duty to keep the law.

We have a duty to love and act in charity.

Jesus said in Luke 17:10 KJV … when ye shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do.

My faith tells me duty and works should not be confused with one another. It also makes me wonder; how may I be a profitable servant of Christ.

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Christian

Never Give Up

How many chances does God give?

I don’t know the answer to that.

What I do know is that only 3 individuals have their final judgment written in the Holy Bible. The beast, the False Prophet, and the devil will be thrown into the lake of fire. Revelation 19:20, Revelation 20:10.

Therefore if you are man, angel, or beast don’t give up. Strive against sin and muster your strength and heart to follow the Lord Jesus Christ.

I’ve been told baptism isn’t available to angels and that the gospel was only given to men. I don’t think that’s true. The Bible tells us to preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15

I believe in God’s mercy. I believe that angels have the opportunity to ask the Lord about baptism and for forgiveness. I believe he will answer the plea of all that call upon him, Acts 2:21.

1 Peter 4:8 KJV says, And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.

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Christian, Inspirational

A Giving Heart

Yesterday on 700 Club there was a woman who asked if she should give to people on the street or if she should give $10 or $20 to whomever asks?

The response from Pat Robertson I have heard from preachers before. Don’t. There are panhandlers in every city and all you are likely doing is enabling their drug habit.

To Mr. Robertson and those supposedly righteous men, I say hypocrites. Your giving pays Pat Robertson’s or your Preacher’s salary. They don’t mind panhandling themselves, to the tune of millions, but they want to hurt people on the street where your charitable giving may do the most good?

Organizations like the 700 Club have administrative fees. These fees pay the salaries of the hosts, the production team, building expenses, etc. This occurs the same in churches and usually is done before charitable giving.

It’s your money, but don’t be afraid to help those that could be in greatest need because of what they may or may not do with your offering.

I think the poor are often marginalized to psychiatric facilities, jails, and to places unseen.

When else will you have a chance to help the needy, except they ask. Jesus said in Matthew 5:42 KJV Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

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