Message from Scripture: 8/4/2021

 

Our message from Scripture today is Heb. 11:6. “Now without faith it is impossible to please God, since the one who draws near to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”

 

When we consider what we must do to be saved, and to live the Christian life, faith is an essential part of pleasing God. But we would also ask, what kind of faith? James reminds us, “In the same way faith, if it does not have works, is dead by itself (Jas. 2:17). It must be a faith that is more than just an acknowledgement of certain truths or realities, as even demons believe and tremble, but that faith does not profit them (Jas. 2:19).

 

In the pages of the New Testament, the term faith carries with it obedience, when it speaks of being saved, of living a life that does please the Father. The word obey comes from a Greek term that literally means “to hear under.” In secular Greek, it spoke of one standing at a door, listening intently, almost eavesdropping. Later, the word came to mean obedience, because after one hears and understands a command or request, he should obey it.

 

If we truly believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, then we must hear what He has to say, and do what He says. Jesus asked the question, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” (Luke 6:46). Today we live in a world of skepticism, where many believe Jesus was a good person, but not divine. Some believe Jesus sinned, and that however you want to approach Him is acceptable to Him. This is contrary to Scripture, which is self-authenticating about it’s claims to being God-breathed. Faith, true faith, will lead us from just knowing who Jesus is, to doing what Jesus says for us to be forgiven of our sins, and to live the right kind of life.

 

Today, may we know the truth, obey the truth, and live the truth, that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ may be truly honored. God bless.

 

Robert