Him We Preach #1640

Him we preach, warning every man and teaching every man in all wisdom, that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus. (Colossians 1:28, NKJV)

What kind of preaching do you expect to hear from a preacher? Do you want preaching designed to entertain an audience of spectators? Do you want preaching that is filled with pleas for money? Do you want preaching that is political in nature? Gospel preaching is none of these things (2 Timothy 4:2). Preaching Jesus includes warnings and wise instruction that establishes souls in the faith (Colossians 2:6-7). The purpose of preaching Jesus is to present every person perfect (whole, mature, complete) in Christ. Insist on preaching that proclaims the word of God and not the will of men (1 Corinthians 1:23; 2:1-5; Galatians 1:11-12). Then, take God’s word into your heart and grow to maturity in Christ.

A Fearful Thing #1639

30 For we know Him who said, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord. And again, “The Lord will judge His people.” 31 It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God. (Hebrews 10:30–31, NKJV)

The God we know is the same God who exacted punishment upon His people Israel when they turned away from God to serve themselves and the idols of the nations (Deuteronomy 32:35). Although God had richly blessed them, the nation “grew fat” and “forsook God” (Deuteronomy 32:15). This serves as a warning to Christians who convince themselves they are justified in “charting their own course” away from God – they will show God (and everyone else) who’s boss! Thus deceived, they forsake God’s word and God’s people for the pleasures of sin. Yet, in the end, God will vindicate Himself. With righteous vengeance, God will recompense those who forsake Him and spurn the spiritual blessings they previously received in Christ (Hebrews 10:26, 29). We will indeed reap what we sow, including Christians (Galatians 6:7-8). It is truly dreadful to contemplate the punishment that is justly prepared for those who sin willfully against Almighty God. Now is the time to repent of every sin, receive mercy from God, and live faithfully. When Judgment Day comes, the fearful expectation of fiery wrath will be the certain reality for all who forsake the Lord.