Message from Scripture: 10/10/2020
Our message from Scripture today is Eph. 4:15. “Speaking the truth in love, may we grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ.”
In this passage from God’s word, Paul emphasizes two fundamental and essential elements to growth in Christ…speaking the truth, and doing it in love. Only truth can save, and so it should be offered in the love of God, a genuine concern for those who need to hear that message.
So, knowing this, it’s interesting to hear Jesus’ disciples say to Him, “Do You know that the Pharisees were offended when they heard this saying?” (Matt. 15:12). As the Son of God, who came to save the world, we know He spoke in truth and love. So where did the offence come from? It came from the Pharisees, whose hearts were hardened against the truth, and who were determined to discredit Jesus, no matter what. The source of their being offended was His contradicting their interpretation of the Law of Moses with the truth, not tradition. They were offended because the truth would have demanded a change, a change they were unwilling to make.
In the course of our lives, we will encounter a variety of people, from various backgrounds, with various beliefs. They may be people we love dearly, or casual acquaintances, but all deserve to hear the truth in love. We cannot separate the two from each other. While Jesus would have wanted all to recognize Him as their Savior, only the truth can save. To reject the truth is to reject Christ. Christ never stops loving, but love must always be accompanied by the truth.
We must always be willing to ask ourselves if these two qualities are ours, truth and love. If we embrace the love of God but reject His truth, we cannot be saved. If we have the truth, but not in love, we will not be drawn to seek what can save us or others. Today, and every day, may we be renewed in the love of God and the love of His truth, seen in the Son, revealed in the word. Together, they will make all the difference in us, and others we may know. Have a great day today. God bless.
Robert
No comments:
Post a Comment