"but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;" 1 Pet 3:15
There are many things that set Christians apart from non-Christians. Foundational to them all is the acknowledgement of Jesus' existence, sonship and ultimate sacrifice for all humankind. The direct result of these beliefs is a voluntary agreement to demonstrate love to him through obedience to his commands, chief of which are to love God with all of our hearts, souls and minds and to love one another as ourselves, Matt 22:37. Failure to do so is to blur the line between ourselves and those who neither know or accept him.
Beloved, we are called upon to be distinct as a body of believers. It is only through this that we have the credibility to share our faith with others. People are never curious about sameness, but in fact are attracted to differences. The peace, well being, faith and willingness to sacrifice for something greater than ourselves generate inquiries. When our loved ones and acquaintances ask about why we do what we do and believe what we believe, it is an opportunity to obey yet another of the Lord's commands. It is an opportunity to share our faith. It is important for us to know that when we do this, we "turn a sinner from the error of his way (and) will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins" James 5:20.
Simply believing is only part of the formula. We must also be the beliefs that we claim and be equipped to take advantage of every opportunity we are given to expand the number of those who call Jesus Lord. As we were once introduced to Christ, it becomes among our chief responsibilities to introduce others. This builds our relationships with each other and our savior. This is what Christianity is all about.
Loving Like Jesus,
Lee
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