Bible reading in one year: Isaiah 41 & 42; 1 Thessalonians 1
“For we know, brothers loved by God, that He has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not simply with words but also with power, with Holy Spirit and with deep conviction…” – 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5 (NIV).
God has already taken the first step in renewing our personal relationship with Him (Rom 5:8) by sending Jesus Christ, who died to pay for our offences against God. By doing so, Jesus bridged the gap between God and all human kind that was caused by sin. Paul’s description of God’s chosen people i.e., those who have accepted God’s invitation of forgiveness and new life made available through the personal sacrifice of His Son, is found in verses 6-1 of 1 Thessalonians; they imitate Christ, endure suffering with the joy given by the Holy Spirit and set a worthy example of faith and a right relationship with God.
The misguided teaching that all people who claim that Christ is their Saviour though they live unrighteous lives is not found anywhere in God’s Word. This misguided idea is serious distortion of spiritual salvation preached by Christ and those He personally commissioned to establish His Church.
In order to be true followers of Christ, people must sincerely admit their sin, turn from their own way and surrender their lives to Christ (Matt. 3:2). This means that they must accept Jesus, not only as their Saviour, but also as Lord (the Leader and absolute authority over their lives (Romans 10:9).
Good morning
Pastor Lawrence Chiazor