TODAY’S VERSE:
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.”
As we wrap up our study on Christianity vs Religion, let us first summarize what we have learned about their key differences. The religions of the world teach people that they must work to earn and keep their salvation and must do so by their own power. Their arrogance produces what we call “self-righteousness”. On top of that, these religions promote fear of going to hell as the motivation to do good works. The religion of the Bible (Christianity) tells us salvation is by grace though faith in Christ alone and that all good work is done by means of His power. Humility makes it possible to receive God’s righteousness. The Bible also teaches us that love and gratitude is what motivates the believer to do good works.
John 6:28-29 “Then they said to him, ‘What must we do, to be doing the works of God?’ Jesus answered them, ‘This is the work of God, that you believe in him whom he has sent’.”
There are many people in this world who are involved with false religions and do not understand the True Gospel. It is a believer’s duty to share it with them. We call this “The Great Commission,” which was given to us by Jesus Christ, Himself.
Matthew 28:19-20 “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
We must understand the Gospel completely so that we will correctly explain it to others. This understanding is possible when we faithfully read our Bibles, go to church, and pray to God for guidance.
1 Peter 3:15 “but in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect,”
It is very important to present the Good News accurately. Giving people a false gospel is a serious sin in God’s eyes.
Galatians 1:8-9 “But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be accursed.”
Though we should not rush into The Great Commission, we should also not be afraid to share the Gospel when the Holy Spirit prompts us. Remember, none of us are perfect, so if your heart is with God and you want to share the Truth with others, He will surely help you.
Matthew 10:19 “…do not worry about what to say or how to say it. At that time you will be given what to say,”
In fact, we have some help for you right now! Here is the beautiful presentation of the Gospel written on our church website. “We are all born depraved. Salvation is a gracious gift from God. It is the result of the Gospel calling, which is: Jesus Christ, who is God incarnate, humbled Himself to die on our behalf. Thus He became the sinless sacrifice to pay the penalty of our guilt. He rose from the dead to declare with power that He is Lord over all, and He offers eternal life freely to sinners who will surrender to Him in humble, repentant faith.”
Wow! Thank you, Lord, for your saving work and enduring faithfulness to your children!