The eternal salvation of one’s soul! Who can top that?
A skeptic talked to a Christian about religion. The skeptic tried to excuse his unbelief by pointing out the evils in the church. He said, ‘The church is full of hypocrites!”
The man of God knew the accusation to be true. He replied, “I acknowledge that there are many who claim to be Christians who do not bear the fruit of the Christian. I acknowledge also that there are faults and failings among all of us. I am not trying to justify the mistakes which Christians make. But I do challenge you to speak a word of criticism against the Lord Jesus Christ Himself.”
The skeptic was surprised. He seemed almost frightened as he sheepishly replied, “Well, no, I couldn’t find fault with Him. He was perfect.”
The Christian continued, “Exactly and that’s why I turn to Him for salvation. I knew myself as a lost, guilty sinner but I saw in Him the One who could save to the uttermost. I TRUSTED HIM! My salvation depends on what Christ did for me but not on what professing Christians are doing.”
My friend, are you trusting in Jesus Christ and Him alone for your salvation? Today’s verse (and explanations within the brackets) makes it plain that salvation is in the perfect Christ! You cannot add anything to Him…can only trust Him!
“Come, every soul by sin oppressed There’s mercy with the Lord
And He will surely give you rest by trusting in His word.
For Jesus shed His precious blood Rich blessings to bestow
Plunge now into the crimson flood That washes white as snow.
Yes, Jesus is the truth, the way That leads you into rest
Believe in Him without delay and you are fully blessed.
Only trust Him, only trust Him
Only trust Him NOW.
He will save you; He will save you
He will save you NOW.”
I tell you the truth. The person who believes in me will live forever. John 6:47 (WE)
Tom Swartzwelder was born again at the age of nine in an old-fashioned revival meeting. Tom received his B.A. from Tennessee Temple University and his M. Div from Luther Rice Seminary. He has pastored for nearly forty years in both bi-vocational and full-time roles. He provides practical how-to-do-ministry resources for the disciples of Jesus Christ. Tom’s latest book is “God Speaks–Today!”
Photo by Kalen Emsley on Unsplash
Excellent rebuttal to a sceptic, I will have to remember that one!