There are 2 popular doctrines being taught which, if followed, will prevent its followers from receiving salvation. ▬The first gospel is the one Paul warned against in Galatians 3. This doctrine teaches that what Jesus did at Calvary and declared was finished, is not adequate. That we need more. Primarily, works (the Law). [See Galatians 3.] That our works (justification by observing the Law) along with Jesus sacrifice equates to our salvation. Folks, Paul made it abundantly clear that we cannot return to the works of the Law and seek to add this to the finished works of our Lord Jesus Christ in order to gain (earn) salvation. Notice: the works mentioned here are done as an attempt to earn what is already freely available for the asking. We simply have to believe (place our faith in Christ) and we shall (will) be saved...according to Scriptures, which I believe (place my faith in) also. However, this is not to negate nor discredit the works a person will partake in as a result of receiving salvation. This work isnt about receiving salvation, its about the effects that salvation has on the person who is now saved. The born-again Believer will now labor in love because they have become a new creation, created by God through Christ for every good works. ▬The second gospel is the one James warned against in James 2. This doctrine teaches that faith is only an idea or a mental substance. That a persons faith can only manifest itself inwardly. Yet, James warns, what good is that type of faith if no one else knows it exists except for the one who claims to possess it? He adds that such a faith, which isnt visible, is dead. If God merely existed and He never did anything, then how would we know that there is a God? But because God created, we now know that the invisible has become visible. Gods existence can be seen because His works in nature and in our lives verify His existence. Likewise, faith that has no evidence cannot be adequately substantiated. Notice how both Paul and James utilized the example of Abraham. Genesis 15:6 Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness. That is the faith that we did not see that God saw and accepted. However James went on to add the example of Abraham and his son Isaac to his demonstration. And in this example Abrahams belief (faith) was put to the test on the altar, with Isaacs faith being equally tested. And God tested Abraham so that all could see when they read Genesis 22:9, what an authentic faith looks like...even under pressure. Did Abrahams faith waiver? Certainly not, his faith was steadfast and clearly visible. Therefore if people are teaching that faith does not endure or that its a one-time occurrence, they are sadly deceived. Make no mistake...when the Lord places someone whos in need onto our path, it is no coincidence. And if all we do is walk right pass them as if we dont even notice them, then our faith needs to be released from the morgue because its lying in a body-bag wearing a toe-tag. On a side note: Im not saying we are to help everyone we see, as some people are professional predators and serial killers and such. Always exercise precautions and safety, as there are those who fake crises in order to harm and victimize others. What Im referring to are everyday situations where we encounter people we are somewhat familiar with in a safe setting where we have the opportunity to do good but pass up on it. Places such as the local church or even our own families, friends and co-workers, etc. Always let the Holy Spirit guide you. If the Lord tell you to help a total stranger out in the middle of nowhere then thats between you and the Lord. Such as picking up a hitchhiker. Each situation varies, thus I am not your Holy Spirit. I cant advise for nor against. Just want you to know that Im not trying to get anyone harmed. Be blessed. Agape.
Posted on: Sun, 09 Mar 2014 05:01:05 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015