Recently I read an article identifying godly Christians as those who talk about God's love. In contrast, the article identified Pharisees as those who talk about sin.
Wrong!
It's impossible to tell people about God's love without telling them how their sins have separated them from God.
True evangelism involves both of these aspects because acknowledging our sins is a necessary part of coming to Christ. We can't understand Christ's sacrifice if we don't understand our need for that sacrifice.
This was the message Christ brought to the dark and lost world:
“The kingdom of God has come near. Repent and believe the good news!” (See Mark 4:16-17 and Mark 1:15.)
And Christ commanded his disciples to teach “repentance for the forgiveness of sins” (Luke 24:46-47).
In fact, Jesus said we must first "count the cost" before becoming His disciples (Luke 14:28-33).
The gospel is not: “Feel good about yourself because God loves you.”
The gospel is: “Realize that sin separates you from God, but He lovingly offers you forgiveness and eternal life if you repent, believe, and follow.”
Do you remember the first time you understood that the greatest act of love in your life was Christ dying for your sins?
The true gospel makes us sad before it makes us happy, but the joy and comfort it brings are incredible!
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See Understanding the Biblical Concept of Original Sin and Personal Responsibility. For a specific example of trying to share Christ without addressing sin, see Superbowl Commercials Present False Christ and see point 5 in Scripture vs. The Shack.
I encourage you to check out the Wisdom for Life
devotional. It contains 100 one-minute devotions to challenge, encourage, instruct, and inspire your love for God's Word. To find out more see 10 Reasons You'll Love Wisdom for Life. I also encourage you to sign up for a free subscription to Bible Love Notes and get a free e-booklet offering quiet time encouragement. Find out more HERE.
BLN
Very true. That is what the commandments do. Like Paul said (in summary), they tell us of our need for a Savior.
ReplyDeleteOh I totally agree. This statement in particular "Without understanding our sin, we'll miss the depth of His sacrifice", is SO weighty.
ReplyDeleteVery good devotional. I just heard someone on tv, this morning, say that the gospel is that Jesus died for all people.... that's it. There was no mention of sin or repentance. The sad part is that not only do people not recognize the greatness of our God and His love, but they also have no salvation and no hope.......Linda E.
ReplyDeleteThis is so true! Thank you for spreading the truth 💟
ReplyDeleteSo true! Thank you for spreading the truth ��
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