2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you–unless, of course, you fail the test? NIV
Romans 8:8-9 So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you. Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of his.
I could not escape Paul’s admonition to the churches in both Corinth and Rome. It seems that his message was more universal than specific to one particular region. The matter included people who considered themselves Christians, but also wanted to live according to the desires of their flesh. They wanted a portion of the world and a portion of the Spirit. Paul said that the flesh cannot please God, meaning that no one can have a little of both. It’s either “All In” for the Cause of Christ or a diluted faith littered with fleshy intent and excuses for worldly pleasures. Paul wrote these words almost 2,000 years ago, but he could have been speaking to our generation this very day. The fact is that most church goers do not want to examine themselves. They would rather rest on their intent instead of their obedience. Yet I rise to say that this cannot be. We must be dedicated to the work of the Church and the Word with all of our hearts, souls, minds and strength. Riding the fence is just as bad as being totally lost. No one will barely make it to heaven. I remind you of the scripture: 1 Peter 4:18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
Our salvation is no trivial matter. We must be totally and completely sold out to Worship, the Word; the church and every Spiritual endeavor. No talent or gift can lay buried or unused. It’s all or nothing. We must Walk after the Spirit!
Pastor Jeffrey Harpole