Matt: 28: 19-20

Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen.

 

ARE YOU A LIVING WITNESS OF THE SAVIOR?

Many Christians think that after salvation they are free to continue to live the way they once lived...this reasoning is simply not true. People must be discipled. A disciple is one who is simply learning how to live out his/her faith by following Christ's model (Phil. 2:5). Many of us have come to know the Lord at a young age, and we are finding our way as we navigate through life. Trusting in the God of our salvation through increased faith by setting oneself apart from the world and obeying God's word, leads to Christian maturity. Every Christian needs bumps and bruising to recover with strength to persevere to the end (Phil 2:12)! God desires that we grow in His grace and in favor among men (Luke 2:52). We must effectively minister to our children so that they can pass their faith to the next generations to come, as specified in Deuteronomy 6:4-9: 

 

"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one!  You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart.  You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates."

 

This verse doesn't negate our responsibility as witnesses to all we encounter. Our witness will be demonstrated as we are "Going" (Matt 28:19-20). However, as we are going, our children will witness our walk as well, and others will observe their witness. Although Deuteronomy 6:4-9 is a message to Israel, the principle still holds true for believer's today. God is the same God, yesterday and today and forever! This Old Testament passage teaches children, through their parents, that the word of God MUST take precedence over all other words. Progressive disciples reproduce other progressive disciples. 

 

Salvation is a free gift, and it is our way to heaven. However, as God is working in us (Eph. 2:10), we must make every effort to continue the work (John 9:4-5). Jesus is our perfection, so we will not always get it right, but we must continue to strive and present God's truth as it has been given to us by the Holy Spirit. So, share this good news, and do not be selfish with your salvation. It is not just for you to keep to yourself. It is given to us so that all will experience the love of God. While sharing your faith, remember that Jesus promises that he will be with you wherever you go (Matt. 28:20)! 

 

Be blessed!

Encourage and Be Encouraged!