Subject: LEFT BEHIND? |
Bible Note: Dear Justme, You wrote: I am not sure scaring fokes into a commitment is ethical,". I also do not think that folks are saved by either fear or their own commitment, but solely on grace that works through faith. Please, I'm really not being picky but have a serious concern regarding modern evangelical tactics employed in getting people to make a "commitment" to Christ. Pemit me to explain my concern and perhaps you share it as well. I believe that many in the chuch today think they are christians but in reality they are not. They decided to "accept" Christ for a variety of reasons. 1. To keep from going to hell. 2. To have happier lives. 3. To preserve their marriages 4. It's good for the kids. 5. to improve their financial condition 6. To be restored to good health. 7. Just to check it out. ....and probably quite a few other wrong reasons I have yet to think of. Well... whats the big deal? The big deal is that these folks are unrepentant. They were never really presented with the gospel. They are among us but they are not of us. Perhaps this could explain why statistics show just as much divorce in the church as among the pagan community! True regeneration will always be accompanied by repentance and faith. They are the fruit of having recieved a new heart of flesh. Our stony (unrepentant) heart has been removed by God. It is His gracious gift to His chosen people. So whats my point? Just this....You cannot frighten, entice, plead, beg or even pray people into the kingdom. What we must do is return to the plain preaching of the gospel. After all, it is the power of God unto salvation. John |