“I am not ashamed of the gospel.” Strange words coming from one who went out of his way to kill and imprison innocent Christians who embraced the Gospel. The gospel Paul is referring to is the ‘good news’ of Jesus who bridged the gulf between a holy God and unholy man. The Gospel is the report that Jesus, the very Son of God came to earth to rescue us by suffering death on a Roman cross paying the death penalty for sin and rising from the grave thus destroying sin, eternal death and Satan’s power.
But how could a hate-filled murderer make such a radical change? It certainly wasn’t the power of suggestion. It was the power of the gospel that changed his heart and saved his soul from hell. The Holy Spirit uses the gospel to call the unbeliever to believe and surrender his life to Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. The Holy Spirit activates, if you will, the Word of God in our minds. He doesn’t need gimmicks or tricks to convince people that it is true, he uses his word that is truth. John 17:17
This is why it’s important to spend time in the bible; reading it, learning it, memorizing and worshipping on Sunday mornings. The Word of God is powerful (Greek – Dynamite) in people’s lives. It delivers from darkness and brings eternal life by God’s grace through faith. The best witnessing tool is God’s word.
Saul who became known as the Apostle Paul was radically transformed by the Word of God spoken in a vision of Jesus. (Acts 9) The Word of God can do the same for you or a loved one, neighbor or even your enemy.
Be sure to read it today and every day.
Pr. Bob Snitzer
By the Way: Today 4:30, Confirmation
Sunday 23, 9:00 Morning worship. Sermon: A Dreaded Disease
10:15 Sunday school for all ages.
February 13 annual meeting following worship.
~ An easy way to donate to the church is to go to our website: www.pilotknob.org and click on the DONATIONS button at the top right.
~ Past communiques and sermons can be read and heard on our website: www.pilotknob.org
