Matthew 3:8 NLT, John-the-Baptist to the Pharisees and Sadducees: “Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.”
John-the-Baptist denounced the Pharisees, Sadducees and other Temple leaders: “You brood of vipers!” He challenged them to live a radically transformed life, a changed life, a much better life as evidence of their true belief in God. Frankly, their past behavior showed no sign at all of loving the Lord. I believe John-the-Baptist was right! And perhaps we should all prove - by the way that we live - that we have repented and returned to God!
Christians are known for good works and for benevolence, but that’s not how we qualify for heaven; that’s not our ticket to the hereafter. But because of what Jesus did for us – because of his gift to us of forgiveness, resulting in our assurance of seeing heaven from the inside - we give back! We support the church, we support charities and we do many good things, but it’s all out of gratitude for what Jesus already did for us. Jesus took the sin of the world to the grave, and left the believers pure, suitable for spending eternity in the presence of the Lord!
"Ibaptize with water those who repent of their sins and turn to God. But someone is coming soon who is greater than I am—so much greater that I’m not worthy even to be his slave and carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire!”
Sounds good to me!
Pastor Norton Lawellin
Jesus in the City Fellowship, 3249 30th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406
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