March 2006

03.03.2006

ne Parson’s Opinion

We had some wood needing to be split to burn in our fireplace insert. So, I bought a “tool” to help split that wood.
The wood was hard! Ben split some and I split some. It took a lot of effort to break the wood apart into smaller pieces to be able to fit in our insert.
There are hearts that are very hard like that wood. Some hearts seem impenetrable. They dig their heels in and fight with all of their might to keep from changing.
The “tool” God has given to His Church to change hearts is the Word of God - the Bible. The Holy Spirit applies the Word of God and changes people. This supernatural event happens in every service.
The Holy Spirit will apply the Word of God to bring someone to salvation. The Holy Spirit also applies the Word of God to sanctify us. Each worship experience makes us a little bit more like Jesus.

The Holy Spirit will apply the Word of God to bring someone to salvation. The Holy Spirit also applies the Word of God to sanctify us. Each worship experience makes us a little bit more like Jesus.
Jesus, in John 17, prays His high priestly prayer. In verse 17, Jesus prays, “Sanctify them by Your truth; Your word is truth.” Jesus teaches the tool for sanctification is the Word.
Our worship services are supernatural experiences to sanctify all of us. Also, your personal Bible study is a supernatural experience. Each time we place ourselves under the Word of God, whether in Sunday School, a worship service or personal Bible study, we are changed on the inside to be more like Jesus.
A crucial element when interacting with the Word of God is receptivity to the Word of God. Paul commends the Thessalonica church for the way they receive the Word of God.
I Thessalonians 2:13 says, “And we also thank God continually because, when you received the Word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men, but as it actually is, the Word of God.”
Let me encourage you to practice as disciples daily Bible study and regular attendance in our worship services. These are vital for your sanctification.
See you on the Lord’s Day,

Jim

Posted by arbc at 06:55 AM