Clever Free Methodist

Jesus used many different styles of teaching. There were also times when Jesus would teach with stern authority because he wanted to be clear in his intent. These were moments he issued commands . Not suggestions. Not general “take it or leave it” statements to ponder. Commands….period. A command is “to direct with authority” or something “demanded.” It is an action or assignment directed from Superior to a subordinate that must be carried out with undue haste and with the utmost effort for the greatest degree of success. Jesus gave us such a command in Matthew 28:19-20 , “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you….” Simply put, we ARE to make disciples and teach them to obey the teachings of Jesus. This isn’t open to debate or discussion nor is it open to be modified or ignored. We must obey this command of Jesus. If we are

“Our God is an awesome God, He reigns from heaven above with wisdom, power, and love, our God is an awesome God!” This chorus has been sung countless times in Churches, events, and gatherings for many years. It has touched the lives of millions. You may be quite familiar with this song “Awesome God” by the late Rich Mullins. Yes, our God is awesome. Nehemiah 1:5 and 4:14 , are two verses that declare, “…Lord God of Heaven, O great and awesome God…Remember the Lord, great and awesome….” But, have we ever stopped to consider the true meaning behind the Biblical use of the word “awesome” in reference to God the Father? The Hebrew word that translates to “awesome” is derived from a verb meaning “to fear.” The good news, is this word “fear” does NOT mean “frightening” or to be afraid of something. Rather, it is the nature of one’s heart and soul that inspires reverence or godly awe . This type of “fear” is closely synonymous with godly living. Think of it this way….wh

1 John 2:27 is pretty “straight to the point” as it says “Just as [the Holy Spirit] has taught you…remain in fellowship with Christ.” The key word here is “ remain !” Once we accept Jesus as our Savior (become born-again), we must realize this isn’t the end…at all. Just the opposite !! It is only the beginning . After receiving Christ, we are challenged to move forward from where we are now to grow ever closer to Him. The worst possible condition for a human being is to “not remain” in Jesus after having truly received Him. In other words, treating “salvation” as nothing more than a “fire insurance policy” or some type of spiritual “guarantee” that we “won’t go to hell, now!” To “get saved” and then just turn away and go on with my life just the way it was before I became a Christian is “not how it works” or why salvation is accepted. To become a Christian, and then to fail to grow, obey, change and become stronger is horribly sad if not a humiliating disaster. The Bible say