Well-fortified cities have broad walls, as Jerusalem in her glory did. In a similar way, the New Jerusalem must be surrounded and preserved by a broad wall of nonconformity to the world, by separation from its customs and spirit. The tendency today is to break down the holy barrier and make the difference between the church and the world insignificant. Professing Christians are no longer strict and puritan, questionable entertainment is everywhere, frivolous pastimes are indulged, and a general laxity threatens to deprive the Lord’s special people of the sacred distinctions that separate them from sinners. It will be a bad day for the church and the world when the proposed merger is complete. When the sons of God and the daughters of men are one, another deluge of wrath will be ushered in. Dear reader, make it your aim in heart, in word, in dress, and in action to maintain the broad wall, remembering that “friendship with the world is enmity with God” (James 4:4 ESV). The Broad Wall provided the inhabitants of Jerusalem a pleasant place from which to view the surrounding country. This reminds us of the Lord’s exceedingly broad commandments, in which we walk in communion with Jesus, overlooking scenes of earth and looking toward the glories of heaven. Separated from the world, denying ourselves all ungodliness and the lusts of the flesh, we are not in prison or restricted within any narrow bounds. No, we walk in liberty because we keep His commands. Come, reader—this evening, walk with God in His statutes. Like friends meeting on the city wall, meet your God in the way of holy prayer and meditation. You have a right to walk the strong wall of salvation, for you are a free citizen of the royal city. - C.H. Spurgeon Morning and Evening
Many days ago, I was lead to write concerning my grieving over a so-called Church, proclaiming their love for an idol right before they broke into song crying out for the Lord to fill the place they were in. That still bothers me today, and then I read this devotional today.
How separated from the world are you? Can you be examined and found guilty of being different from the world? Harsh way to put it, but still, is there enough evidence for it to be declared that you are a Christian?
So many Churches today have introduced compromises on so many things that it's no longer a Church it's a club that has free admission with no conscience on declaring the ravages of sin in a person's life.
People have infiltrated the Church, just as the Scriptures warned us about and they have made a mockery of what Christ went through on the cross to sway people.
The Bible says to speak the truth in love. Seasoning your words. The Bible is there to teach us how to live Godly lives.
"All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work." 2 Timothy 3:16-17
This isn't just for Pastors, it's for everyone.
Remember James 4:4 "You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God."
It's not alright to worship idols while being in a place to worship God.
It's not right at Church it's not right in our personal life. Our lives will be examined one day. Every thought and every intention reviewed. What will yours say about you?
While in your home or Church or even your car or workplace, is Christ with you? Ridiculous question I know. Of course He is!
Be careful of your choices. Because James 4:4 applies to all who claim to be Christians.
It's not all in fun. What kind of punishment did Jesus say should be for one who causes a little child to stumble? Sound at a like He was kidding?
The Churches in Revelation. It goes back to that. Especially the one rebuked for leaving their first love, which is Christ.
Can others say unequivocally that you are a Christian? Or will there need to be a long drawn out discussion to determine whether or not you are?
You cannot serve two masters.
No comments:
Post a Comment