But what God foretold by the mouth of all the prophets, that his Christ would suffer, he thus fulfilled. Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, - Acts 3: 18-19 (ESV)
Matthew 7 tells a frightening truth from the mouth of Jesus about what it will be like on the day of judgment. How many will come to Him saying "Lord Lord." These are clearly churched people. They may even be purpose driven people. They cast out demons in His name. They performed many miracles in His name. Yet despite this He never knew them and they are thus consigned to eternal damnation. How much more for the everyday average churchgoer? Lord Lord did we not go to church ever week? Did we not tithe as demanded? Did we not find our ministry purpose and put our hands to the plow? Did we not feel sincere when we repeated after the pastorpreneur in reciting the sinner's prayer? Look at all these leaves we have!
These are not small matters beloved. They are the heart of Christ's work on the cross. They are at the heart of the plan of God to redeem us. Not to sit in a pew. Not to serve in a ministry. But to be born again. To understand our sinful nature before a holy God and freely accept the gift that is being offered to repent for the forgiveness those sins. To be regenerated and a new creation in Christ Jesus. The true Gospel demands something from us and it is more than a wink, a nod, and a nine word prayer.
Reverend Anthony Wade - June 30, 2014
