Wanted: Those Seeking the Gospel
A reading for Tuesday, September 2, 2014: John 8:33-47.
The Jews were amazed that Jesus offered them freedom from sin, since they believed they were the righteous people of God acting in a world filled with sin. Jesus challenged their world view. They wanted to kill him to silence him, which Jesus claimed proves they were not righteous.
It has been said by many that North America is the most difficult place on the planet to share the gospel since so many believe the American experience is so exceptional in a world filled with poverty and injustice. (It is exceptional by the way.) However, Jesus challenges our world view too, and reminds us we are not exempt from poverty and injustice. We are just as much in need of grace as others. Perhaps our inability to recognize the gospel in our culture and it's power to free us from sin is the proof that we need it so desperately. The gospel might look different here compared to other parts of the world, but is just as urgent and just as necessary.
Jesus said, "If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Whoever is from God hears the words of God." Let us hear the words of God today and urgently seek the gospel for our neighbors and our nation. They are counting on us.
The Jews were amazed that Jesus offered them freedom from sin, since they believed they were the righteous people of God acting in a world filled with sin. Jesus challenged their world view. They wanted to kill him to silence him, which Jesus claimed proves they were not righteous.
It has been said by many that North America is the most difficult place on the planet to share the gospel since so many believe the American experience is so exceptional in a world filled with poverty and injustice. (It is exceptional by the way.) However, Jesus challenges our world view too, and reminds us we are not exempt from poverty and injustice. We are just as much in need of grace as others. Perhaps our inability to recognize the gospel in our culture and it's power to free us from sin is the proof that we need it so desperately. The gospel might look different here compared to other parts of the world, but is just as urgent and just as necessary.
Jesus said, "If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Whoever is from God hears the words of God." Let us hear the words of God today and urgently seek the gospel for our neighbors and our nation. They are counting on us.
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