Message from Scripture: 7/21/2021

 

Our message from Scripture today comes from 1 Cor. 15:8; “Last of all, as to one abnormally born, He also appeared to me.”

 

In speaking of the people to whom Jesus appeared after His resurrection, Paul concludes by speaking of himself as the last of all those who witnessed the resurrected Lord. Even though he was called to be an apostle, he calls himself the least (1 Cor. 15:9), which carries the idea of being minimal in magnitude, whether in number or quantity, or rank, dignity, and importance. Paul could consider himself this way because, as he says, “I persecuted the church” (1 Cor. 15:9).

 

Paul knew his past, but he also knew his present and future. He knew how sincere he had been, but how lost he was. He knew the grace of God, and he knew the hope God has reserved in heaven. In considering who he was, he understood what it meant to be a beloved child of God, but he also understood it was of God, not of himself. He was dependent on God, knowing in and of himself, he was nothing. He was amazed God chose him to be an apostle, and he offered himself totally and completely in serving Him, from gratitude, humility, and hope.

 

We all have sin that needs to be forgiven, and no matter how we would categorize it, without Christ it will condemn us. How much we need the love of God in Christ! How thankful we should always be that, no matter our past, we have help and acceptance today, and unending splendor in our tomorrow.

 

In Christ we are forgiven, and that can overcome any guilt of the past. In Christ we long for eternal, unending praise and joy beyond this veil of tears. Like Paul, left alone, we are hopeless; with God’s help, we are hopeful. Today, lets go out and serve our Lord and Savor Jesus Christ, because in Him we have life. God bless.

 

Robert