Here’s a challenging quote from a book I’ve been reading. (The Mystery of the Empty Stomach by Joey Bonifacio):
“In the final analysis, could it be possible that a considerable number of sinners love their sin more than some Christians love their God? Could it be that Jesus’ bride is unsure of her true delight, desire, and devotion? The world looks at her and says, “I’m not sure she loves her Jesus as much as I love my sin.”
If you’ll permit me the freedom to rant a bit (it is my blog after all) I have some thoughts which arise from this…
I think the world is sick and tired of people who act like they have all the answers, who instruct them in how they live their lives, who teach them what is right and wrong, who tell others that they should give their lives to God and then so obviously hold most of their own lives back. I think the world is looking for more than text book answers and a bit of Bible-bashing. Surely the world wants more than just “stop doing all those things you enjoy and do this instead”
What does the world need?
I believe the world is need of many answers to rescue it from the mess it is in, and many people need rescuing from the path they’re on. I’m also fully persuaded that the world needs more than talk. I think it wants to see a people who live by what they say. The world needs to see a people are so fully devoted to God that their lives actually look different and attractive. A people who are slower to give answers and quicker to live lives which cause people to actually ask “tell me the reason for the hope you have.” (1 Peter 3:15) or even “please can you tell me why your life seems happier and less messed up than mine”
Do you love me more than these?
There’s a moment, recorded in John 21, when Jesus approaches Peter and says “do you love me more than these”. I think it’s an appropriate question for all of us who call ourselves Christian. Do we love Jesus more than sin? Do we love Jesus more than immorality, wrongful sexual desires, material satisfaction, money? Are we living lives that demonstrate that while sin and the patterns of the world lead to pain and destruction, righteousness and obedience to God leads to fulfilled joy, peace, hope, and good things in life?
I don’t claim to be the most successful person who ever lived at getting this right. I think, like most of us, there are times in my life when I’ve been full of opinions and empty of fruit. One thing I can say though, is that I’m committed to living a life which is slower to speak and quicker to love Jesus with everything I have.
What do you think people are really looking for? Thoughts, comments? Post them below.
But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect. - 1 Peter 3:15
For any worshippers out there, check out the latest post on my worship blog, “Habitual Worship”
