The Gospel Message

I see fellow Christian's who are so passionate about God and His word; they share scripture and biblical truths, speak out against sin and heavily emphasize on "false prophets" and doctrines.

But as I follow, as I read their words and sit in awe of their knowledge of the Bible, I notice one significant missing factor, a lack of spiritual connection to Christ.

I'm not talking about emotionalism. I'm talking about a deep and sincere relationship with God.

Following the law alone does not equal a relationship with the Lord. The Pharisees knew and enforced scripture, yet didn't recognize Jesus standing right in front of their faces. Living by God's Holy Word and listening to the voice of his Holy Spirit that dwells in us, is what produces an authentic walk and likeness with and to Christ.

You can recite scripture and point out heresy all day long, but if your actions, your witness, your words...not just your "theological opinions," do not point your audience to a God who is ready and waiting for an authentic, sincere, open line of communication relationship with him, then your efforts are fruitless.

As scripture proves, there's more to serving God than just following a set of rules. It is much deeper than that.

There's prayer, there's praise, there's surrendering of ones self, there's the crucifying of flesh, there's an obedience to the Word and the Holy Spirit. There's conviction and sanctification. There's a putting away of the old man and becoming a new. Not just the putting away of sins because that's what you're "supposed" to do, but OVERCOMING sins hold on you because you now walk in the power of Christ.

He has redeemed you, cleansed you, and given you a new life. You still have the choice to sin, but you are now bound to Christ, therefore you can overcome your desire to sin.

Does this mean we dismiss God's commandments and are free to sin? Paul said, "God forbid." No. I am simply saying not to be as the Pharisees and miss the realness and fullness of Christ.

Are you teaching the Gospel Message, or simply being a Pharisee?