We left the poker table discussion with an Iraqi veteran admitting he's become unsure about religion, after growing up Catholic. A woman with us at the table brought out the comment that what the vet saw overseas left his faith shaken.
We tried to comfort him in the thought that when it's all said and done, it's about believing in Jesus. It's not really about what church you attend or what denomination's practices you follow.
Some denominations would challenge that notion, because they claim to "know the truth" and their ways are more biblically sound than any other group. But if we pay close attention to the words of Jesus, a different view emerges.
Note John 7:38: "Whoever believes in me [or "on me" in KJV], as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him." The next verse points out the "streams" refer to the Holy Spirit dwelling inside you.
John later wrote, "Everyone who believes that Jesus is the Christ is born of God.... Who is it that overcomes the world? Only he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God." (I John 5:1, 5) And Paul adds, "....A man is not justified by observing the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ." (Gal. 2:16)
A doubting Thomas needed that sort of faith, after the Lord was resurrected. If you need it, do what the first apostles did. Ask Jesus prayerfully, "Increase our faith." (Luke 17:5) Then practice a believing faith in God -- seeking God, that He might reward you in His good timing (Heb. 11:6).
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment