IS THE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY SENDING THE RIGHT MESSAGE?

I have been thinking about the message the Christians Community has been sending to the lost regarding salvation. How are we attempting to reach those who we believe are not saved? For some time, have we been sending the wrong message regarding God, Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit? It is evident that something is not right regarding our redemption plan. Otherwise we would be in a worldwide revival. It appears that we are working a dead horse with spreading the Gospel. Is it time for a new message or going back to the messages that drew people to Jesus Christ?

One thing I notice is that the messages we hear today about religion is more about church membership, baptism, involvement, commitment, dedication and of course tithing or giving. Don’t misunderstand, all of those have their place in salvation if presented properly. The most important factor regarding salvation must focus on the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His death, burial and resurrection and the precious blood that saved us sinners. I have noticed an increasing trend toward messages that make people feel good. There is also the guilt trip message. Also, I notice that churches are neglecting Bible study and old fashion prayer meetings and replacing them with a social atmosphere. I believe that anyone who leads a flock, whether it is one or a thousand, may they be reminded of what it says in Jeremiah, Chapter 23.

People are being introduced to excitement and hype. Success is counted by numbers. I believe that the natural man and even the evangelicals do not completely understand what a personal (distinctive to a certain person), intrapersonal (inside or within), and interpersonal relationship (relationship between persons) with Jesus Christ is all about. I believe that if we did, there would be more people seeking Jesus. If a person does not understand the relationship connection, how can they explain it to others correctly? How can we begin to understand the function of the Lordship of the Living Lord Jesus? Not just accepting an opinion that He is Lord, God, and Deity, but as the acceptance of the fact that my life is no longer mine to determine, but is entirely at His disposal and determination. In Luke 6:46, Jesus rebukes those who addressing Him as Lord. He said, “Why do you call me Lord, Lord, and do not the things which I say?”

Another contributing factor to the decline is the one on one contact with the lost. One of the many reasons people shy away from personal contact is fear. Does this have something to do with the relationship a person has with Jesus? I notice that many individuals communicate through the use of banners. Again, don’t get me wrong, banners for the most part encourage and support the saved and we all need encouragement. I ask you, are they reaching the lost and winning souls for Jesus Christ? Beware of Satan’s deceitful ways when approaching lost souls. Modern technology cannot replace the old fashion personal contact. Believe it or not, people love personal contact.

Could our churches be teaching that a person can be a Christian and not be a disciple? Is man changing God’s plan? My understanding is that when you follow Jesus Christ, you become a disciple. I believe that if you use the name Christian, you are a follower of Jesus. Don’t use the name in vain.

I ask my true brothers and sisters in Christ, are we allowing converts to become disillusioned and confused by what we are presenting as salvation? Are we presenting half-truths and not the whole truth as presented in the Bible? They then fade away and turn back to the way of the world or seek out a feel good church. I can assure you that a feel good sermon is only temporary. True blessings from God only come when a person believes wholeheartedly from his or her heart on Jesus Christ and follows the instruction of the Bible as God teaches. Are we failing to teach the Word of God and its truth?

Is your salvation based on a carnal nature and carnal wisdom? When you have to make important and even non-important decisions, do you follow God’s instruction or your own carnal way? Are you afraid that you cannot live as God wants you to because of guilt (which comes from the devil) of past sins? Let go and let Jesus save you and be set free. Give all to Him and receive the peace and understanding of a loving God and Savior. Let the Master of Life take over and be blessed.