The Word:
“For the word of the cross is folly to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” – 1 Corinthians 1:18 ESV
“For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” – 1 Peter 4:17 ESV
“He disarmed the rulers and authorities and put them to open shame, by triumphing over them in him.” – Colossians 2:15 ESV
Reflection:
Until we realize the destructive nature of sin, the cross WILL NOT make sense to us. Those who see the cross of Christ as unnecessary or see God as a divine child abuser have no concept of the power of sin. The death of Jesus on the cross disarmed demonic powers and freed us from total enslavement to sin. Jesus’ final sacrifice of himself ended the need for any more bloodshed to atone for sin forever. He gave himself freely out of his love for humanity. Christ paid the sin debt that we could not pay. The cross was a demonstration of God’s self-giving love for humanity.
Yet, much of the Church has neglected the power available to us to live an overcoming life. We all sin, but we do not have to live in complete slavery to it.
As the Church goes, so goes our society.
Cover-ups and scandals plague the Church in America. Disobedient Church leaders and members have re-armed dark principalities and powers through destructive sin patterns. Satan only has power over a believer if we give it to him through unrepentant sin.
The Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I ask that you would grant repentance to the American Church. You have many faithful gospel witnesses, still standing for and living the truth. But, much of Your Church in America has compromised with sin. Forgive us for not speaking the truth in love to those who do not know You yet. Revive Your Church. In Jesus’ name, amen.
