Despite tremendous material success in life, in the end, everything is left behind. Yet, there are those who are able to keep something from this life, and that is because of their relationship with God.
Dave Harris
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
A new Member Letter (June 2017) has been written and sent out to our subscribers. In this letter Dave Harris focuses on the Work of God and our role in the end-time commission given to the Church of God.
“Why Britain’s Election Debacle?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Theresa May’s call for early elections has backfired and left her and Great Britian in a deeply vulnerable position in the light of Brexit negotiations which are supposed to start very soon. Her miscalculations followed David Cameron’s gamble which equally went wrong. Why is all of this happening? Are there spiritual reasons which go far beyond human explanations?
“Prüfet aber alles–doch wie genau?,” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German Sermon by Norbert Link. Title in English: “Prove all Things… But How Exactly?”
“Safety,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:
How do we plan for safety in the threat of imminent danger? What are the things that we try to protect? If we seek true safety, we must learn where to find it while avoiding the trap of false security.
“The Thessalonian Struggle,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:
The building of the Thessalonian church exemplifies Christian character and a “first love” attitude. But that initial desire to follow Christian ideals turned lackluster in the latter examples of this church. We can easily fall into the same idle attitude if we don’t take Paul’s warnings to heart.
Whose Slaves Are We?
We get to choose! (Deuteronomy 30:19-20).
It all boils down to being a slave of righteousness or a slave of sin—to being a slave of obedience to God or a slave of obedience to Satan. The outcome is either eternal life or eternal death (Romans 3:15-23).
We are a slave of sin if we commit sin (John 8:34). Remember that before becoming a Christian we were all captives of Satan—we did what he wanted us to do (2 Timothy 2:26). We were slaves of sin (Romans 6:17).
But God called us out of Satan’s slavery (Romans 8:2). He revealed the truth, and that made us free (John 8:32). We are “called to liberty” (Galatians 5:13), and it is the truth that enables us to understand God’s “perfect law of liberty” (James 1:25; also: 2:12). It is the truth which sets Christians apart from Satan’s influence (John 17:17).
Now, as Christians, we are “slaves of God” (Romans 6:22). We have been redeemed—our freedom from slavery was bought by the Sacrifice of Jesus Christ (1 Peter 1:18-19; 1 Corinthians 6:20; 7:23).
As slaves, we are called servants of God and Jesus Christ (compare Revelation 1:1; 22:6). That means we are to give our service to them—which understanding is borne out in many of the parables of Jesus, for example, “‘So likewise you, when you have done all those things which you are commanded, say, “We are unprofitable servants. We have done what was our duty to do”’” (Luke 17:10).
There is a very high standard for serving God—and Jesus Christ, as the Servant of God, has set the example for us (compare Matthew 12:18; Acts 3:13, 26; 4:27, 30). The reward for serving God as Jesus Christ did places us in a very special relationship with Him:
“‘No longer do I call you servants, for a servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all things that I heard from My Father I have made known to you’” (John 15:15).
Yet, there is so much more in store for the former slaves of Satan who have been called to become slaves of God—as the apostle John reveals:
“Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! Therefore the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is. And everyone who has this hope in Him purifies himself, just as He is pure” (1 John 3:1-3).
Whose slaves we are will be reflected in how we live—will it be in righteousness or wickedness? There really is only one right choice to make!
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
“Trump Angers Israel–No Move of US Embassy to Jerusalem,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Donald Trump’s signing of a waiver that delays, if not prevents, the move of the US embassy to Jerusalem, and that in violation of his clear promise, has upset and angered Israelis and Evangelicals alike. It shows again the major disagreement and sharp differences between Israel and the USA. In addition, another political and highly controversial player, Turkey under dictator Erdogan, is trying to get control over the Temple Mount and eastern Jerusalem. Watch the special video at the end of this program.
“Is Evolution an Insult to Your Intelligence?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
It’s a provocative question, because many believe in Evolution, without ever having looked into the evidence. But do you really believe that you are the evolutionary product of a mollusk, as Charles Darwin stated, or the descendent of crabs, spiders, squids, cuttlefish, slugs and snails, as a new seven yearlong study claims? If you strongly disagree with such silly nonsense, what then is the alternative? Watch the special video at the end of this program.
A new Global Trailer, titled “Heaven and Earth,” has been produced by Pastor Brian Gale.
“Trump gegen Merkel und Europas Zukunft,” is the title of a NEW AufPostenStehen program, presented by Norbert Link. This new APS program talks about the recent events regarding Trump and Merkel, etc., and includes the German Ad video on the German booklet on Europe in Prophecy. Title in English: Trump vs. Merkel and Europe’s future.
“Volkszählung und Tod–Missverständnisse über König David (Teil 6),” is the title of the new German sermon for this Sabbath. This is Part 6 of the series on David and concludes the series. Title in English: “Absalom–Misunderstandings about King David, Part 5.”
“An Aberration,” is the title of the morning sermonette on Pentecost, present by Robb Harris.
“The Promise of Pentecost,” the morning sermon presented on Pentecost by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Before Abraham, before Adam and Eve—before time began, God made a promise. The promise was eternal life for His children, and Pentecost points to the fulfillment of this promise for those who believe and have the faith of Jesus Christ.
“Vessels of God,” the Offertory presented in the afternoon on Pentecost by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Many times the Bible mentions vessels or cups in both physical and spiritual realms. The Bible enjoins us to become vessels worthy of being used by God. What can we learn by looking at what God instructs us the use of these cups?
“How Is God’s Holy Spirit ONE Spirit?” the sermon presented in the afternoon on Pentecost by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
On the annual Feast Day of Pentecost, God gave His Holy Spirit to the New Testament Church. The Bible tells us that God’s Holy Spirit dwells in a true Christian, leading and motivating him or her. But what does this mean? Does only the Father have Holy Spirit, emanating from Him? Or does Jesus Christ have Holy Spirit as well, flowing out of Him? If so, which Holy Spirit dwells in a true Christian? The Holy Spirit of the Father, the Holy Spirit of Christ, or both? Who gives the Holy Spirit to a Christian? The Father, the Son, or both? And if it is true that a true Christian has received the Spirit of the Father and the Spirit of Christ, how can the Holy Spirit be ONE Spirit?
“Strangers in the Night,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
According to the Bible, true Christians are strangers and pilgrims in the darkness of this world. But while they are in the world, they are not to be of this world and of the night. Rather, they are to be lights shining in the darkness. What practical consequence should that have for us?
“Longsuffering for Righteousness Sake,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Michael Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Why do we suffer? Is it necessary for our eternal salvation? God has long-suffering for us just as we do for Him as we eagerly wait for Christ’s return. How do we live a life pleasing God and what does He promise us in return?
The Promise of Pentecost
Before Abraham, before Adam and Eve—before time began, God made a promise. The promise was eternal life for His children, and Pentecost points to the fulfillment of this promise for those who believe and have the faith of Jesus Christ.
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
A NEW Video Trailer presenting our booklet, “Heavens and Earth…Before and After the First Man!” has been produced by Michael Link.
A new Russian booklet (a translation of, “The Keys to Happy Marriages and Families”) has been posted on the German website. In addition, several new German articles have been posted on the German website.
“Trump’s New Attacks on NATO and Germany… What’s Next?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
President Trump’s behavior and statements in Brussels towards EU leaders and NATO members have continued a pattern which will lead to terrible consequences for America and the rest of the world. We should not gloss over these events as meaningless, because NATO members, Europeans and especially Germans are getting tired of Trump’s continuing accusations and demands and are determined to respond forcefully.
“Absalom–Missverständnisse über König David (Teil 5),” is the title of this Sabbath’s German sermon. Title in English: “Absalom–Misunderstandings about King David, Part 5.”
“Wieso ist der Heilige Geist EIN Geist?” is the title of the German sermon for Pentecost. Title in English: “How is God’s Holy Spirit ONE Spirit?”
“Under Satan’s Rule,” the introductory message presented last Sabbath by Norbert Link, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Terrorist attacks by crazy suicide bombers; the utter deterioration of the relationship between USA and Europe; Europe’s preparation to create a powerful army; violence in the Middle East; ongoing threats from North Korea; apparitions of the “Virgin Mary”; ridiculous laws; complete misrepresentations of the biblical truth; and many other developments show us Satan’s handiwork. The White House is viewed as one the most haunted homes in America, with leading politicians having been involved in séances or communications with ghosts. This is Satan’s world, and he is anxious to bring about the Great Tribulation.
“Tiny Changes,” the sermon presented last week by Kalon Mitchell, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Life is a series of course corrections and changes. It is the tiniest changes that make the most impact. But the problem is that often times these small changes are the hard ones to see. How can we make sure that the small choices we make daily are making up the large picture that we are striving for?
What Does it Mean to “Deny Christ”?
Although many people identify themselves as Christian, and that amounts to almost one-third of the world’s population, the Bible indicates that in “the last times” false Christianity would arise. In response to His disciples’ questions about the end of the age and when He would return, we have this prophetic warning:
“And Jesus answered and said to them: ‘Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in My name, saying, “I am the Christ,” and will deceive many’” (Matthew 24:4-5).
Deception began to work very quickly following the establishment of the Church of God. After only a few decades, JUDE wrote about the “faith”—that is, true Christianity—being under assault. His letter to the Church addresses the encroachment of men and doctrines opposing the truth:
“Beloved, while I was very diligent to write to you concerning our common salvation, I found it necessary to write to you exhorting you to contend earnestly for the faith which was once for all delivered to the saints. For certain men have crept in unnoticed, who long ago were marked out for this condemnation, ungodly men, who turn the grace of our God into lewdness and deny the only Lord God and our Lord Jesus Christ” (Jude 1:3-4)
How were these “ungodly men” denying God and Jesus Christ? It was through heretical teachings. PETER wrote of those who deny Jesus through false doctrines:
“But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction. And many will follow their destructive ways, because of whom the way of truth will be blasphemed. By covetousness they will exploit you with deceptive words; for a long time their judgment has not been idle, and their destruction does not slumber” (2 Peter 2:1-3).
JOHN noted those who reject Jesus as being the Christ—the Messiah, meaning “anointed one”:
“Little children, it is the last hour; and as you have heard that … [a]ntichrist is coming, even now many antichrists have come, by which we know that it is the last hour” (1 John 2:18). (NOTE: The New King James Version rendering in this verse is: “that the Antichrist,” but “the” is not in the original and antichrist should not be capitalized—compare the King James Authorized Version. For a full discussion of this topic and the comments which follow, please refer to our Q&A: Who is the Antichrist Prophesied to Come?)
Continuing…
“Who is a liar but he who denies that Jesus is the Christ? He is antichrist who denies the Father and the Son. Whoever denies the Son does not have the Father either; he who acknowledges the Son has the Father also” (1 John 2:22-23).
Belief that Jesus Christ is the Son of God is an absolute requirement for salvation! (Compare 1 John 5:6, 10; John 3:16, 36; 6:40, 47; 11:25). This was the central fact which dominated the preaching of the gospel, and PETER, specifically identifying “Jesus Christ of Nazareth” (Acts 4:10), boldly proclaimed:
“‘Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved’” (Acts 4:12).
Even among those who seemingly acknowledge Jesus Christ, there is great confusion about Him—specifically, regarding His life as a human being. JOHN warned of those who were already denying that Jesus had come as a physical, mortal man:
“Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is not of God. And this is the spirit of the Antichrist [better: “the spirit of antichrist,” compare Authorized Version], which you have heard was coming, and is now already in the world” (1 John 4:1-3).
This denial has tragic implications! JOHN further addresses deception which was arising in his day—and which still misleads concerning the doctrines of Christ:
“For many deceivers have gone out into the world who do not confess Jesus Christ as coming in the flesh. This is a deceiver and an antichrist” (2 John 1:7).
Quoting from our Q&A: Who is the Antichrist Prophesied to Come?:
“The spirit of antichrist DENIES the entire saving work of Jesus Christ–who He was before He became a man; who He was when in the flesh; who He is today; what He DOES today; and that He lives His life in the flesh of His disciples who OBEY Him.”
PAUL—and the ministry of his day—were confronted by those “who had a form of godliness but denying its power” (2 Timothy 3:5). What these people claimed was not backed up in how they lived their lives:
“For there are many insubordinate, both idle talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision… They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work” (Titus 1:10, 16).
JESUS CHRIST had much to say about those who would deny Him:
“‘Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before My Father who is in heaven’” (Matthew 10:32-33).
Note Revelation 3:8, quoting Christ as saying to the church in Philadelphia: “‘… I know your works… you… have kept My word and have not denied My name.”
Why would someone deny Christ? A major reason is because of persecution as a Christian, but JESUS warned that this would come:
“‘Remember the word that I said to you, “A servant is not greater than his master.” If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you. If they kept My word, they will keep yours also. But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know Him who sent Me’” (John 15:20-21).
When a person is called into the Truth, standing firm and not denying Christ will oftentimes be a great test. Again, this is something JESUS said would come—it is part of “counting the cost” (Luke 14:28):
“‘Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword. For I have come to “set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law”; and “a man’s enemies will be those of his own household.” He who loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who loves son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me. And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it’” (Matthew 10:34-39).
JESUS explicitly taught that, “‘whoever of you does not forsake all that he has cannot be My disciple’” (Luke 14:33). Otherwise, we are denying Christ.
In a similar manner, once a person is called, is baptized and has received God’s Holy Spirit, he or she must continue. To deny Christ’s Sacrifice and to turn back to sin as a way of life and to deny the faith (1 Timothy 5:8) is to reject eternal life (compare Hebrews 10:26-39; 6:4-6; Luke 9:62).
To deny Christ means to practice lawlessness (Matthew 7:23); to turn to and believe false doctrines (2 Timothy 4:3-4); to not grow in the grace and knowledge of Him (2 Peter 3:18); and, to not live as He lived (1 Peter 2:21). When we realize that we have become guilty in any of these areas, we must repent immediately.
Finally, consider this ominous warning from JESUS:
“‘For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him the Son of Man also will be ashamed when He comes in the glory of His Father with the holy angels’” (Mark 8:38).
Lead Writer: Dave Harris
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
Pentecost will be observed on Sunday, June 4, 2017. We will conduct live services in both the morning (10:00 AM Pacific Time) and afternoon (3:00 PM Pacific Time).
“Ehebruch–Missverständnisse über König David (Teil 4),” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon. Title in English: “Adultery–Misunderstandings about King David, Part 4.”
“Success in Overcoming,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Robb Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Overcoming the sin so prevalent in this world isn’t achieved by simply desiring it. We must continually attune our efforts so they bring the most fruit. If we wish to be successful we must allow scripture to focus our direction–guided by God’s Holy Spirit.
“Zeal,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:
Zeal is about building and nurturing enthusiasm for living by God’s Truth. To become zealous and sustain this essential Christian quality is an important goal to work towards. But how can it be done? What are the benefits of being zealous, and what are the consequences if we are not?
Preaching the Gospel and Feeding the Flock
compiled by Dave Harris
A new Member Letter (May 2017) has been written and mailed to our subscribers. In this letter, Pastor Rene Messier reminds us of God’s promises of help as we face more and more trials. He draws special attention to our need to not become complacent as we anticipate the establishment of God’s Kingdom.
Michael Link has produced a new German video for the German booklet translated from, “Heavens and Earth…Before and After the First Man!” The booklet was just distributed to our German subscribers. He will also be producing an English version very soon.
“Coming—Nuclear War without Survivors?” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Jesus Christ told us that an unparalleled time of disaster would strike this planet which could eradicate all life on earth. Many feel today that nuclear war is inevitable… that it is not a question of “if,” but of “when,” killing billions of people. The Hill wrote on May 15 that the world may be on the “threshold of a ‘new nuclear age'” where “the likelihood of nuclear use is greatly increasing.” The Bible prophesies worldwide nuclear war. But there IS hope for us!
“FBI Director Comey Fired–Another Trump Debacle,” is the title of a new StandingWatch program, presented by Evangelist Norbert Link. Here is a summary:
Given the timing, manner and underlying circumstances, as well as the many glaring inconsistencies in the reports from the White House and President Trump, the US President’s controversial termination of FBI director James Comey has been described as a “massive cover-up” and a “perilous moment in American history,” with parallels to “Watergate” and the “Saturday Night Massacre.” The President’s actions opened wide the floodgates of speculation in the liberal and conservative national and international media, portraying the Trump Administration as a laughing stock and a government which cannot be trusted. What does this all mean in the light of biblical prophecy?
“Missverständnisse über König David, Teil 3,” is the title of this Sabbath’s new German sermon. Title in English: “Misunderstandings about King David, Part 3.”
A new German APS program was recorded and posted. It covers God’s 6,000 year-plan, and the new video of our booklet, “Heavens and Earth…Before and After the First Man!”, is embedded. Title in English: “God’s 6,000-Year-Plan.”
“Suppertime,” the sermonette presented last Sabbath by Eric Rank, is now posted. Here is a summary:
A meal is a common and essential occurrence for everyone, everyday. What does the Bible say about the daily event of eating a meal?
“The Time of the End,” the sermon presented last Sabbath by Dave Harris, is now posted. Here is a summary:
The consummation of the ages is prophesied as being an incomparable time of trouble—a period of great tribulation for all those who dwell on the earth! Do you believe the warnings from God which are written throughout the pages of the Bible? Are you preparing to face what is coming?
Pentecost will be observed on Sunday, June 4, 2017.
What Does It Mean to “Confess Christ”?
Many denominations encourage their members to publicly “confess Jesus Christ.” Oftentimes, this proclamation is presented in the context of “finding the Lord” or of “being saved.” Along with this personal “witnessing” others are then encouraged to “accept Christ” in order that they, too, might be “saved.” A favorite Scripture for this approach is Romans 10:9:
“[T]hat if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.”
Indeed, this statement and others, such as John 3:16; 6:40; and 6:47, all point to necessary actions for salvation. But is professing Jesus Christ and merely appropriating His name all that God requires? Jesus addressed those who would falsely believe they were serving Him by using His name:
“‘Not everyone who says to Me, “Lord, Lord,” shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven. Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied IN YOUR NAME, cast out demons IN YOUR NAME, and done many wonders IN YOUR NAME?” And then I will declare to them, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness!”’” (Matthew 7:21-23).
In the Book of Acts, we find an example of those who took it upon themselves to indiscriminately use the name of Jesus:
“Then some of the itinerant Jewish exorcists took it upon themselves to call the name of the Lord Jesus over those who had evil spirits, saying, ‘We exorcise you by the Jesus whom Paul preaches.’ Also there were seven sons of Sceva, a Jewish chief priest, who did so. And the evil spirit answered and said, ‘Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?’ Then the man in whom the evil spirit was leaped on them, overpowered them, and prevailed against them, so that they fled out of that house naked and wounded” (Acts 19:13-16).
From this example we learn that the men who falsely invoked the name of Jesus did so with terrible consequences. In the statement of Jesus as quoted above and by this example in Acts, we should understand that the name of Jesus Christ is to be revered! It is the divine name of the Son of God! (Philippians 2:9-11).
Using the name of Jesus Christ bears great responsibility—and power. Through the ministry appointed by Jesus, salvation is preached, and Jesus has given His ministry power to heal. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Peter healed a man who had been lame from his birth (compare Acts 3:1-9). Note this powerful testimony from the apostle Peter regarding this healing:
“Then Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, said to them, ‘Rulers of the people and elders of Israel: If we this day are judged for a good deed done to a helpless man, by what means he has been made well, let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom you crucified, whom God raised from the dead, by Him this man stands here before you whole. This is the “stone which was rejected by you builders, which has become the chief cornerstone.” Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved’” (Acts 4:8-12).
On the Day of Pentecost—the beginning of the New Testament Church of God—Peter preached to those assembled, saying, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:38).
A true minister of God will baptize “in the name of Jesus Christ”—pointing to His sinless Sacrifice as payment for one’s sins (1 John 3:5; Romans 5:6-11). But before a person is baptized, real repentance must take place (Matthew 3:8). Applying Romans 10:9-10, the minister will also ask if the individual believes that Jesus Christ is his or her Savior, and in that sense one “confesses”—that is—openly acknowledges the supreme role of Jesus Christ in their salvation.
How, then, do people continue to “confess” Christ—or should they even do so?
First of all, it falls to the ministry of the Church of God to PREACH! Jesus Christ has set the ministry in place with different roles (compare 1 Corinthians 12:28; Ephesians 4:11-16). Furthermore, no one should presume to have this responsibility who has not been ordained by the laying on of hands by other ministers. Carefully note what is written in Hebrews:
“And no man takes this honor to himself, but he who is called by God, just as Aaron was” (Hebrews 5:4).
Jesus chose twelve apostles (Luke 6:12-16); Jesus chose seventy men to preach (Luke 10:1-12); and, Jesus chose Paul “‘to bear My name before Gentiles, kings, and the children of Israel’” (Acts 9:15). Paul wrote to Titus that he “should set in order the things that are lacking, and appoint elders in every city…” (Titus 1:5).
Throughout the New Testament, the Church of God is reported as preaching the gospel in a very organized way. While the ministry was given specific roles, all the members participated in supportive ways. Romans 16:1-16 records the names of certain people and how they contributed to the Work of the Church. Several Books of the New Testament cite the positive actions of other Christians.
While preaching is not the role given to members of the Church of God, being an EXAMPLE of Christianity is! Jesus said, “‘You are the light of the world’” (Matthew 5:14). In this context, Paul writes:
“Do all things without complaining and disputing, that you may become blameless and harmless, children of God without fault in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation, among whom you shine as lights in the world…” (Philippians 2:14-15).
When we live according to the Way of Jesus Christ—when our example “speaks” to others, we may be asked about our beliefs. Here is how Peter said we should RESPOND:
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear…” (1 Peter 3:15).
While some may think that they can push Christ onto others through their personal evangelism, THEY ARE UTTERLY WRONG! Christ said, “‘No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him…’” (John 6:44); and, “‘I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me’” (John 14:6).
Ultimately, to really “confess Christ,” you must become perfect, “‘just as your Father in heaven is perfect’” (Matthew 5:48). That is accomplished by “bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5).
Lead Writer: Dave Harris