| Saved From Our Sins? |
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1:21 And she shall bring forth a son; and thou shalt call his name JESUS; for it is he that shall save his people from their sins.
An angel told Joseph that Jesus would "save His people from their sins." That is a concept you don't hear much about today (even in churches) -- being saved from your sins.
We hear a lot about being saved into Heaven. In fact, many people think that "going to Heaven" is the sum total of Christianity -- just getting people through the "pearly gates". Jesus didn't see it that way though. In the "Lord's Prayer" or the "Our Father", Jesus taught us to pray: "Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven." According to Jesus, Christians are suppose to pray for God's will to be done here on earth, just like it is in Heaven. And that begins, not in governments or in religious organizations; but in my life and in your life. According to Jesus' prayer, you and I need to do the will of God here on earth. Now that is radical!
For us to obey God daily, we must be saved from our sins. If we are in bondage to self-destruction and rebellion, we won't do God's will. In other words, Christianity is a lifestyle. It is a lifestyle of moral purity, freedom from self-destructive behaviors, and victorious daily living as we demonstrate to others the love and character Christ.
You believe good doctrine. The Bible says the devils also believe and even "tremble". You have had an experience with God. Spiritual experiences are fairly common. But here is the key to genuine Christianity: Are you living a Christian lifestyle? Are you saved from your sins?
Why do we Christians concern ourselves so much about getting into Heaven and ignore obeying God on earth? Isn't it time for us Christians to begin to daily live what we say we believe?
Maybe we should quit asking the question: "Am I going to Heaven?" And start asking: "Am I obeying God today? Am I being led by the Spirit moment by moment? Am I giving my life in service and love to others?" |
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