Do you shine in the lives of those around you?
Ask a non-Christian what they think a Christian is. Very often they would answer something like, "Oh, those are people who don't _______ ." Fill in the blank.
The reason why the world defines us by the things that we don't do, is because they are used to us telling them what they are doing wrong. Telling them what they should not be doing. Our "don'ts" shout louder than anything else.
The world understands clearly what we as Christians are against. But do they really understand what we are for? Do they see Jesus Christ in us?
Is this method working to gain disciples for Christ?
How about you? When you came to Christ? Was it because you saw a group of people who had a list of things they were against that you decided to join them? Or was is something else that drew you to the Lord?
Jesus called us the "light of the world".
"You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16 (NIV)
Notice how we are to be that light. We shine not by trying to convict the world of sin, but by showing our good deeds. The Holy Spirit is the only one who can convict the world of sin.
Speaking of the Holy Spirit Jesus said, "When he comes, he will prove the world to be in the wrong about sin and righteousness and judgment." John 16:8 (NIV)
Our job, our mission is to be the light of the world. To be a signpost pointing to Jesus Christ, the only way of salvation.
So much has changed in our country. We see the changes and it puts us on the defensive. But who are we to decide who gets to hear the gospel and who does not?
When the world sees us loving each other, and loving others, they will see Jesus.
"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." John 13:34-35 (NIV)
Love God, love people, do something about it.
Preacher Mike Beasley
Freedom Biker Church
919-550-FREE
