This is the sixth part of our series on the regenerational effects of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. We have looked at conviction for sin, desire to worship, love, hunger for the Word and prayer, the desire to serve and this month, concern for those without Christ. Our focus has been distinguishing between “church attendees” and those who are truly born again, i.e. the real Church.
Every truly born again believer has had to come face to face with their spiritual condition and recognize their need for a Savior. By understanding “the wages of (their) sin is death” they have also come to understand that the wages of sin for every man, woman and child is death as well. When those who are truly born again understand this, they are compelled to share their faith with those who are separated from God and headed for eternity, without Him, in hell.
The Scriptures clearly teach that all are sinners, deserving the penalty demanded by justice. It is entirely righteous for God to condemn all men, (who are each, equally guilty of and born under sin,) to death. “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) Anything short of divine judgment would be an injustice.
Here are the facts of the Gospel. Jesus Christ: God’s Only Begotten Son, came into the world, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, died for our sin, in our place, (taking the penalty we deserve,) conquered death by being physically raised up from the dead after three day and three nights in the grave, ascended to the right hand of the Father in heaven and ever lives to intercede for those who are His. Our Messiah’s completed work enables God to grant forgiveness to those who are willing to receive His mercy and pardon their sin. This is what believers call the “Good News” i.e. the Gospel. Everyone who fully understands this, and has received forgiveness of sin, is compelled to share his or her faith with others, enabling them to escape the wrath we all deserve.
Jesus commanded His disciples to “go into all the world and preach the gospel.” (Mark 16:15) Today, as Jesus disciples, those who are truly born again follow the mandate and share this hope with the world. Our worship of God, love for others and genuine understanding of the eternal destiny of those who don’t know the Lord demands it.
Are you concerned for the Lost? Are you comfortable knowing others may spend eternity in hell? Have you a burden or passion to share the good news with those around you? Jesus has demonstrated His love for us, and the whole world. Now He commands us to go… The time is at hand.
Blessings to you all,
Pastor Paul