There are social studies and surveys that say people in the United States are leaving the faith. At the same time, it appears that young men are embracing the faith. I have been a Christian for 46 years. I still affirm that the best decision in my life is to follow Jesus example and teaching… to be a disciple (learner). One constant temptation is to add to the gospel. The gospel of Jesus, offers forgiveness of sin and a personal relationship with God “by faith”… faith alone! I am tempted to add things like church affiliation, good works, political leanings, prosperity, self-fulfillment, and the like. But, the gospel of Jesus Christ is wonderfully sufficient, infused by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit to make my life all that it should be. In it I have profound purpose, identity, and joy. I think there are two modern distortions of the gospel to avoid, legalism and license. Legalism says I need “Christ plus my performance.” License says I can have “Christ without transformation.” I wonder if others struggle with the purity and simplicity of the true gospel? The churches in Galatia did.
I am amazed that you are so quickly deserting Him who called you by the grace of Christ, for a different gospel, which is not just another account; but there are some who are disturbing you and want to distort the gospel of Christ. But even if we, or an angel from heaven, should preach to you a gospel contrary to what we have preached to you, he is to be accursed! As we have said before, even now I say again: if anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to what you received, he is to be accursed! Galatians 1:6-9 NASB
What am I trusting in to make me right with God? With whom am I sharing the gospel who needs a relationship with God?
God, as this day begins- I am so grateful to be included in the kingdom of God, a recipient of Your grace, and a messenger holding out the Word of Life to others. I pray that through my life, others would find Christ. Help me reject additions to the gospel and find sufficiency in this dynamic wonderful connected life You’ve provided. Work within me, through me, and beyond me to make an eternal difference today. And return my lovely bride tonight safely. And thank You again for my grand-cuties, every one of them.
