How practical is the Word of God, especially in its application today. I have often asked myself this question and sought a logical answer to truly understand Christ’s teachings. Is it logical to turn the other cheek and forgive those that have wronged us? The answer to this question is twofold.
First, we must understand that God originally created a perfect world, one without sin or blemish. Since the sin of pride entered man’s heart, it led him to disobedience, and disobedience to death. For instance, sin separated us from God and created both a spiritual and physical death along with suffering on this earth. Please listen to my first sermon to get more information on this topic.
Secondly, Satan is the ruler of this earth, the one who attempted to overthrow God in heaven. He is known by many names: Adversary, Beelzebub, Dragon, Enemy, Lucifer, Murderer, Prince of the power of the air, Man of sin, Tempter, Thief and Serpent. Satan was originally a high ranking angel who allowed pride to consume him, which caused his exile from heaven. He was cast down to this earth as punishment for leading a rebellion in heaven. Please listen to my fourth sermon to get more information on this topic.
Why is this important to know? Well, this outlines the background of why this earth is corrupt and who is actually in charge (Satan). The rulers of this earth operate under the influence of Satan, spreading hate, murder and lies. As a result, Christ’s teachings don’t seem to fit with the values expressed by this world. For instance, the Beatitudes taught by Christ in Matthew 5:3-10 clearly outline Christ’s stated objectives and pursuits for our lives:
- Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
- Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
- Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
- Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
- Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.
- Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God.
- Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.
- Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
There is not one mention of violence, revenge or taking action to increase personal gains. These are selfless values, focused on justice, mercy, self restraint and endurance. Furthermore, in Matthew 5:38-48, Christ says 38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’[h] 39 But I tell you, do not resist an evil person. If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also. 40 And if anyone wants to sue you and take your shirt, hand over your coat as well. 41 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. 42 Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. 43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Love your neighbor[i] and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, 45 that you may be children of your Father in heaven. He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous. 46 If you love those who love you, what reward will you get? Are not even the tax collectors doing that? 47 And if you greet only your own people, what are you doing more than others? Do not even pagans do that? 48 Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.
Simply put, the Kingdom of Heaven is not concerned about the “he said she said” nonsense, nor accumulating earthly treasures. In fact, nothing material on this earth matters in heaven. So, the real question should be are we followers of this world, or are we followers of Christ. If we follow Satan’s lies than Christ’s teachings make no sense, however, if we serve the Almighty, then we should be concerned about becoming like Christ and storing treasures in heaven, not on earth. So, I ask you tonight, are you willing to take the narrow road that takes you to Salvation, or will you take the wide path that takes you to Hell (Matthew 7:13-14). The decision is yours. If you choose to accept Christ, please pray with me.
Heavenly Father, I come to you in the name of Your Son Jesus Christ. I acknowledge to You that I am a sinner, and I am sorry for my sins and the life that I have lived. Please forgive me of my sins and forget my sins as far as the east is from the west.
I believe that your Only Begotten Son Jesus Christ shed His precious blood on the cross at Calvary and died for my sins. From this point forward I turn from my sins and come to you dear Jesus. I confess Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior. I pray in Jesus name. AMEN
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