SALVATION
In Romans 1:18 we read that the wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people. In Bible, we come across many incidents manifesting the wrath of God against His people for their disobedience. God’s wrath is the response of his holiness and righteousness towards evil and towards intrusion of evil into His world. Someone said that the wrath of God is His steady, unrelenting, unremitting, uncompromising hostility to evil in all its forms and manifestations. Bible informs us about the Day of Judgment and we are under the condemnation of God because of our rebellion and disobedience. Our sins separate us from God and the consequence of our sin is death (Romans 6:23). The divine wrath hangs over us unless and until it is taken away.
Though the wrath of God is mentioned several times in the Bible, it is also counteracted by the theme of salvation. In Romans 5:8-9 we read that God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him. In Ro. 3:23 we read that without salvation we are dead in our sins. In John 3:14-19 we are told that without salvation we are condemned and in John 3:36 we read that without salvation we are under God’s wrath.
From Romans 5:9 and 1 Thessalonians 5:9 we understand that Salvation refers to being saved from wrath of God, that is, from God’s judgment of sin. Thus, Salvation refers to the deliverance from eternal punishment for sin. We are reconciled to God through Christ. God has rescued us from the penalty of Sin through the blood of Christ. In 1 John 2:2, we read that Christ is the atoning sacrifice for our sins and for the sins of the whole world. Salvation is the gift of God and is given freely to all who truly believes in the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross. In Acts 4:12 we are told that there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. Christ is the only way for salvation. We are lost without Christ.
Faith in the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and life of obedience to God go together. Believing in Christ, repenting from our rebellion, confessing our sins and accepting Christ as our Savior is the starting point of our new life in Christ. Salvation from the punishment of sins is also called as justification, which means the God's act of removing the guilt and penalty for sin and making a sinner righteous through Christ's atoning sacrifice. In Bible, Salvation is also understood as ongoing process. We are being saved from the power of sins and this process is called Sanctification. We are being conformed to the likeness of Lord Jesus Christ (Rom 8:29). And the salvation process goes on till our departure from earth. In Mt 24:13, we read that one who stands firms to the end will be saved. We need to withstand the trials patiently and has to overcome the temptations on regular basis.
In our pluralistic society, we have made the concept of God user friendly and derived a convenient doctrine that God is only love and would never punish sin but the truth is God will judge all who have never repented and trusted in Christ. In order to escape the wrath of God we have to receive the salvation that is given freely to whoever believes in the redemptive work of Christ and consistently follow Him through their conscious efforts.
NEW LIFE IN CHRIST
God promised in Ezekiel 36:26 that He gives us a new heart and put a new spirit within us. New heart here refers to new inner life. New life in Christ is often spoken as born again life. When we believe in the finished work of Christ on the cross, repent from our old ways, confess our sins and make a conscious decision to follow Christ, we are born again spiritually. It is an act of God whereby, eternal life is imparted to the person who believes. Our new life imparted us numerous spiritual blessings and privileges. We got a new life of holiness, obedience, surrender and love for God. We have a new destination because of our new life. We are given eternal life and an inheritance along with Christ in heavenly places. New life brought us a new relationship with God. We are no longer under condemnation and wrath of God. In our new life we delight in the things of God and hate the things of the world and the flesh. How we look at the world and people changes. Our new life hates the sin that still has a hold on us. The separation and enmity between us and God is removed. We are reconciled to Him and became members of the body of Christ.
From Eph 2:10, we understand that we are His creation – New creation, Created in Christ Jesus. In Colossians first chapter we read that God has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins. We are reconciled by Christ’s physical body to present us holy in His sight, without blemish and free from accusation. This reveals the process and the purpose of our new life. In Rom 8: 29, we are told that we are chosen to be conformed to the likeness of Jesus Christ. The new life looks outwardly toward Christ instead of inwardly toward self.
2 Corinthians 5:17 reads as “if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; all things have become new”. We can’t have a new life and hang on with our old ways. New life refers to putting off old nature and its desires. It is removing pride, love of sin and sinful habits. In Colossians 3:5 we are advised to put to death the sinful, earthly things lurking within us. We have to put off immorality, impurity, lust, greed, anger and evil desires.
There must be external evidence that proves that there’s been an inner transformation. New life would have to bring us a change in attitude towards the things of the world and towards the things related to God. Being a follower of Jesus Christ is not just one among many different aspects of our daily life. We should be striving every day to be a better follower, becoming more like Jesus in our thoughts, words and actions. May God enable us to strive to let every detail of our life to represent Jesus through our desires, purposes, thoughts, words, actions and relationships.
INNER CHANGE
In Acts 8:4-24, we read about an influential person in society. He is none other than Simon, the sorcerer. He was considered great by Samaritans. People believed that Simon as great power of God. He had lot of fans and followers.
Meanwhile, because of the persecution, believers and leaders of early church scattered out from the church in Jerusalem. They had preached the gospel and won people for Christ wherever they went. Philip came to Samaria and was preaching gospel there. God used him mightily. As the result, many came to Christ. Simon the sorcerer Simon also believed, got baptized & involved in ministry, witnessing the mighty works of God. Simon is saved and baptized one now. And he joined the gospel preaching team of Philips, becoming active in ministry.
When leaders in Jerusalem heard about the ministerial breakthrough in Samaria, they sent the key leaders (Peter and John) to help the believers in Samaria further in things related to God. When Peter and John placed their hands on the believers, they received the Holy Spirit. Simon, the sorcerer got amazed to see this spectacular work of Holy Spirit. Immediately, Simon offered money to Peter to get the ability to give the Holy Spirit to those he wants.
Peter answered: “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord in the hope that he may forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” Acts 8:20-23
These verses highlighting the need for inner change, was
addressed to a saved, baptized active Christian. It shows that looking godly
outward does not guarantee the inner change
- He looked Pious but was carnal.
- He looked spiritual but acted selfish
- He was living a life like whitewashed tomb
THINGS THAT WOULD HAVE BLOCKED INNER CHANGE IN HIM ARE
1.He was ignorant about spiritual matters. This is evident from Acts 8:20.
Ignorance is spiritual matters leads to Immaturity in Spiritual life, Stagnant
in Christian walk and inability to overcome carnality. True Christian life is
the change in inner life. We have to make conscious efforts to self-examine and
to take corrective actions whenever required.
2.His heart (inner life) was not right before God (Acts 8:21). His external appearance was not coinciding with his internal life. He lived a dual life….One life in front of church/ministerial friends and another life in front of others.
3.He was in sinful bondage (Acts 8:23). He was tied by lust,
jealousy, pride, etc. Mt 5:8 emphasis the need for the purity in thoughts,
imaginations and desires. Being pure also would mean being reliable, honest and
faithful with respect to our relationship with others.
We all commit mistakes, but only few accept their mistake, confess and get
forgiveness and will be restored
- Adam blamed Eve and did not own up for the mistake
- Cain had lot of chances to correct his actions, but he did not repent
- David committed great sin, when he CONFESSED AND REPENTED, he was accepted
- Jonah disobeyed God, repented in the belly of fish, GOT SECOND CHANCE
- Peter betrayed, REALIZED HIS MISTAKE, REPENTED AND BLESSED
Like the father, in the prodigal son story, God can accept you if you return to
him……There are two ways ….narrow way leading to eternal life and broad way
leading to destruction…..Which is your choice?
ARE YOU IGNORANT IN SPIRITUAL MATTERS?
IS YOUR INNER LIFE RIGHT BEFORE GOD?
ARE YOU BOUND BY SINFUL HABITS? …..Now is the time to Repent and turn to God
and to experience the change in your inner life
CHRISTIAN MATURITY
Christian maturity refers to the process of growth and
development in the faith and character of a believer. It is the journey of
moving from spiritual infancy to spiritual maturity, becoming more Christ-like
in attitudes, actions, and understanding. It is about continually growing in
Christ-likeness and reflecting His character in our lives.
Here are some key aspects of Christian maturity:
1. Knowledge of God and His Word: Christian maturity involves a
deepening knowledge and understanding of God's character, His Word (the Bible),
and His will for our lives. It includes studying Scripture, learning about
God's attributes, and growing in wisdom and discernment.
2. Relationship with Christ: Christian maturity entails deepening intimacy
and dependence on Jesus Christ. It involves cultivating a personal relationship
with Him through prayer, worship, and abiding in His presence. It also includes
surrendering one's life to Christ and aligning one's will with His.
3. Fruit of the Spirit: Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit
as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness,
and self-control. Christian maturity involves the development and manifestation
of these qualities in one's life, as the Holy Spirit works within the believer
to produce godly character.
4. Discipleship and Service: Mature Christians actively engage in
discipleship, both as learners and as mentors. They seek to grow in their
understanding of God's truth and help others in their spiritual journey.
Christian maturity also involves serving others selflessly, using one's gifts
and talents to build up the body of Christ and make a positive impact on the
world.
5. Wisdom and Discernment: Mature believers develop wisdom and discernment
through their knowledge of God's Word, guidance from the Holy Spirit, and life
experiences. They make godly choices, discerning between right and wrong, and
seek to apply biblical principles to their decisions and actions.
6. Perseverance and Endurance: Christian maturity involves enduring
through trials, hardships, and challenges with faith and perseverance. It is
about growing stronger in one's trust in God, even in the face of difficulties,
and remaining steadfast in the midst of adversity.
7. Love for Others: Mature Christians grow in their capacity to love
others genuinely and sacrificially. They exhibit compassion, forgiveness, and
kindness towards others, seeking to reflect the love of Christ in their
relationships and interactions.
BE AN ACTIVE MEMBER IN THE BODY OF CHRIST
When you are born again and added to the family of God, you became a member in the body of Christ, the universal church of God. As a member of the body of Christ, you have a certain role and responsibility.
As a believer, you have to
- Help other members in the body of Christ to grow in Him
- Bring others in to the body of Christ.
One cannot be passive in the body of Christ. If you are alive in Christ, you need to be functioning. If you start doing what you can do, for the Lord, the Spirit of Lord will lead you step by step, and the results will surprise you. There could be many reasons and excuses, that hinders you from working for the Lord, but if you give place to such negative impulses, there will be no movement in the positive direction. Do not wait for the waves to slow down, there will be waves one after another. Those who sees the wind will not sow.
SIGNIFICANCE OF INTERCESSORY PRAYER FOR A
CHRISTIAN
Intercessory prayer holds great significance for Christians. It is a form of
prayer where believers intercede on behalf of others, bringing their needs,
concerns, and desires before God. Here are some reasons why intercessory prayer
is considered significant in the Christian faith:
1. OBEDIENCE TO THE EXAMPLE OF JESUS CHRIST: Jesus Himself served as the
ultimate intercessor, praying for His disciples and all believers. In John 17,
Jesus intercedes for His disciples, praying for their well-being, unity, and
future mission. As followers of Christ, Christians are called to imitate His
example, including His intercessory ministry.
2. LOVE FOR OTHERS: Intercessory prayer is an expression of love and concern
for others. By lifting others' needs in prayer, believers demonstrate their
care, compassion, and desire for the well-being and spiritual growth of others.
3. PARTNERSHIP WITH GOD: Intercessory prayer acknowledges our dependence on God
and recognizes His sovereignty and power. It is an invitation for God to work
in the lives of others, to bring healing, transformation, guidance, and
provision according to His will.
4. FULFILLING THE ROYAL PRIESTHOOD: Christians are described as a "royal
priesthood" in the New Testament (1 Peter 2:9). Intercessory prayer is
part of exercising this priesthood, representing others before God, and offering
prayers on their behalf.
5. UNITY AND RECONCILIATION: Interceding for others fosters a sense of unity
and community within the body of Christ. It helps believers recognize their
interconnectedness and encourages mutual support, empathy, and understanding
across diverse backgrounds and circumstances.
6. SPIRITUAL WARFARE: Intercessory prayer engages in spiritual warfare,
recognizing that there are spiritual forces at work in the world. It seeks
God's intervention in challenging situations, combating evil, and praying for
God's kingdom to come and His will to be done.
7. IMPACT AND TRANSFORMATION: Intercessory prayer has the potential to bring
about tangible and spiritual transformation in people's lives. It can lead to
healing, deliverance, salvation, guidance, and the outpouring of God's
blessings upon individuals, communities, and nations.
8. STRENGTHENING FAITH AND TRUST IN GOD: Engaging in intercessory prayer
deepens one's faith, trust, and reliance on God. It allows believers to witness
and participate in God's faithfulness, power, and answers to prayer,
strengthening their relationship with Him.
SUGGESTIONS FOR DEVOTIONAL BIBLE STUDY
Having a devotional Bible study involves setting aside time for personal
reflection, prayer, and study of scripture. *Here's a step-by-step guide to
help you get started:
Set aside time: Choose a specific time each day or week to dedicate to
your devotional Bible study. Consistency is key to building a habit.
Choose a quiet place: Find a quiet and comfortable place where you can
focus without distractions.
Select a passage: Choose a passage of the Bible to study. It could be a
verse, a chapter, or a theme that resonates with you.
Read and reflect: Read the passage slowly and attentively. Reflect on
its meaning and relevance to your life. Consider what God might be saying to
you through the text.
Pray: Spend time in prayer, thanking God for His word and asking for
wisdom and understanding as you study. Pray about how you can apply the passage
to your life.
Study the context: Consider the historical and cultural context of the
passage. Look up related verses or consult commentaries to deepen your
understanding.
Journal: Consider keeping a journal to record your thoughts, insights,
and prayers during your devotional time. Writing can help you process and
remember what you've learned.
Apply it: Think about how you can apply the lessons from the passage to
your life. Is there a specific action you need to take or a mindset you need to
change?
Share with others: Consider discussing what you've learned with a
friend, family member, or small group. Sharing insights can deepen your
understanding and encourage others in their faith journey.
Be open to growth: Stay open to how God might be speaking to you through
His word. Be willing to learn and grow as you continue your devotional Bible
study journey.
SIGNIFICANCE OF FELLOWSHIP FOR A CHRISTIAN
BELIEVER.
Fellowship is significant for Christian believers as it provides a context for
spiritual growth, unity, encouragement, support, and the shared experience of
God's love. It is through fellowship that believers can live out their faith,
grow in Christ-likeness, and impact the world with the transformative message
of the Gospel. Fellowship refers to the gathering, community, and shared
experience of believers in Christ. Here are some key points highlighting the
importance of fellowship:
NOURISHMENT:
Fellowship provides an environment for spiritual growth and nourishment.
Through fellowship, believers can encourage, support, and edify one another in
their faith journey. This includes sharing insights from Scripture, engaging in
discussions about spiritual matters, and providing mutual accountability in
living out the teachings of Christ.
UNITY:
Fellowship fosters unity among believers. It creates a sense of belonging and
shared identity as members of the body of Christ. In Acts 2:42, the early
Christians "devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to
fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer." This demonstrates the
close-knit community they formed, supporting and caring for one another.
ENCOURAGEMENT AND SUPPORT:
Fellowship allows believers to come alongside one another during times of joy
and times of trial. It provides a space for mutual encouragement, comfort, and
support. In Hebrews 10:24-25, believers are encouraged to "consider how to
stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as
is the habit of some, but encouraging one another." Fellowship provides a
platform to uplift and inspire one another in the Christian walk.
SHARING GIFTS AND TALENTS:
Each believer possesses unique gifts and talents given by God. Fellowship
provides an avenue for these gifts to be shared and utilized for the benefit of
the community. As believers come together, they can use their diverse abilities
to serve one another, contribute to the growth of the body, and impact the
world with the message of Christ.
EVANGELISM AND OUTREACH:
Fellowship extends beyond the gathered community of believers. It equips and
empowers believers to reach out and share the love of Christ with others. As
believers experience the transforming power of fellowship, they become
witnesses to the world, drawing others into a relationship with Christ.
WORSHIP AND PRAYER:
Fellowship includes collective worship and prayer. When believers come together
in fellowship, they can worship God, express gratitude, and seek His presence
corporately. This shared experience of worship and prayer strengthens
individual faith and deepens the relationship with God.
Some practical suggestions to promote healthy fellowships
REGULAR GATHERINGS:
Schedule regular gatherings. Consistent and predictable meetings help build a
sense of belonging and provide opportunities for members to connect with one
another.
CREATE SMALL GROUPS:
Small groups offer a more intimate setting where individuals can build deeper
relationships, share life experiences, and provide mutual support. These groups
can focus on specific interests, Bible study, prayer, or serving together.
PRACTISE HOSPITALITY:
Foster a culture of hospitality. Encourage members to open their homes and
create spaces where people can gather, share meals, and engage in meaningful
conversations.
CULTIVATE CULTURE OF LIVE AND GRACE
Emphasize the importance of love, acceptance, and grace within the fellowship.
Encourage members to extend forgiveness, show kindness, and support one another
through difficult times.
FOSTER INTERGENERATIONAL RELATIONSHIPS:
Encourage interaction and connection across different age groups. Organize
events or activities that bring together people of various ages, fostering
mentorship, learning, and mutual encouragement. Intergenerational relationships
promote a sense of unity and allow for the sharing of wisdom and experiences.
PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SHARING AND PRAYER:
Create spaces for members to share their testimonies, prayer requests, and
personal victories. Encourage a culture of support and prayer where members can
intercede for one another and experience the power of collective prayer.
