MarcATL
Diamond Member
- Aug 12, 2009
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I came across something earlier this week that I wanted to share. Hopefully it sheds some more light on not only Christianity, but the Character of Christ...
As I read it earlier this week it struck me, this would be good to post. I'm not sure if this is the exact passage, but if it's not it's a good one nevertheless. I'll have another or two more to share hopefully before the weekend's over.
Be blessed!
Countercultural icon Bob Dylan wailed, "You're gonna have to serve somebody. Well, it may be the devil or it may be the Lord, but you're gonna have to serve somebody." Dylan's sentiment is correct. While "no man can serve two masters," everyone serves one. Christian freedom must be understood within this context. There is no spiritual Switzerland--neutral territory inclined neither right nor left. We are on one side or the other in the great controversy. To choose not to choose is to make a choice, the wrong choice. Through His death on the cross, Christ has paved the way for all the world to have salvation, freedom, and victory in Him. Yet, we have to be careful. First, millions of freed slaves have willingly returned to slavery. Christ unlocked the penitentiary, shattering prison gates and destroying prison walls, but many prisoners remained there by choice. Second, others escaped shamed, fearfulness, and guilt. They serve God motivitatd by fear rather than love. They serve Jonathan Edwards' angry God: "The God that holds you over the pit of hell, much as one hold's a spider, or some loathsome insect over the fire, abhors you, and is dreadfully provoked."--Clyde E. Fant, Jr., and William M. Pinson, Jr., 20 Centuries of Great Preaching (Waco, Texas: Word Books, 1971), vol. 3, p 63. Fortunately millions have also accepted the freedom purchased at the exorbitant price of Christ's life. Released from guilt, shame, haunting memories, addictions, and self-destructive behaviors, they enjoy the abundant life provided by their Creator.
As I read it earlier this week it struck me, this would be good to post. I'm not sure if this is the exact passage, but if it's not it's a good one nevertheless. I'll have another or two more to share hopefully before the weekend's over.
Be blessed!