I find it interesting that there are such differing positions and thoughts on so many topics today. This is not just in the world or our nation but even in what are identified as Christian institutions and organizations. That common sense we spoke of last week seems at times nonexistent. Common sense being replaced with a give me what I want whether it is right or not mentality.
If you will take the time to consider what is happening in all areas of human life, you will note that there are often polarizing positions on any given subject. I personally am able to accept that another may not have the same position I have. Thus, I am content that it is their right to be wrong. They haven’t changed my mind and I didn’t change theirs either. It is what we do moving forward that makes the difference.
When you look further you find that although people disagree on somethings there are other things they may agree on and those are the ones where the difference is made. You see from a Biblical perspective there are things which someone else and I may disagree. Our conclusion in an area in which there may actually be this side of Heaven no actual truth known. So the difference exists, but in the meantime we can agree to disagree.
Here is an example of my point. If we consider and agree that Jesus is coming back, however you think it is at the end of the tribulation and I think it is before then we disagree on a Biblical teaching. I am able to admit that Scripture is not as clear as we might like on the subject. So there would be disagreement but from what is available in Scripture, the two conclusions are found. We don’t disagree that Jesus is coming for the church. We only then disagree on when it occurs on the eschatological timeline. You like that? I threw in eschatological which is the study of the end times.
OK, back to the point we are looking at, and that is we may disagree but we don’t need to be disagreeable. Calling one another names and getting upset with each other. What is more important would be the question of salvation. On this Scripture is very clear. Without faith in Jesus Christ as the Son of God. That He came and died for the sins of the world. Rose on the third day and is now sitting on the right hand of the Father in Heaven. We can and should agree because Scripture is clear that it is faith in Jesus Christ that saves us.
There is an important statement made in Acts 4:12 NKJV-
…for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
These are Peter’s words to the Sanhedrin after his and John’s arrest for healing the lame man at the temple at Solomon’s portico. Now I want to encourage you to read right now Acts 3-4 so you can understand and familiarize yourself again with account in Scripture. I’ll wait right here for you, so come back when you finish.
Alright, glad to have you come back. Wasn’t that an exciting portion of Scripture? There is so much in it but what I wanted you to see and the point I wanted to make is that although there was a lot going on, there was a specific thing that occurred. First, it was because of Jesus and faith that the man was healed. Secondly, as Peter declared “..there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved.”
Whether it be in Scripture or what is happening around us, it is always about Jesus. I will honest with you right now. Elaine and I were talking and I told her how bothered and concerned I was about what is happening today in our country. I am tired and I will be honest with you that I am very worried about what comes next for these United States. Will and even can we get back on track? I know this for sure, only God knows. My prayers and I hope yours are God have mercy on us and our country.
In God’s Grace,
Elbert Nasworthy
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