Reflection: Salvation

We all need to take time to reflect. Time to think about where God has brought us from and how God is still working in us. Time to think about what is really important in ministry and in our families. This has been one of those weeks that has been crazy but incredible. I’ve had some highs and lows myself as I have spent time in reflection, but I am more encouraged and excited than ever about what God is doing!

In our small community over 250 people put their faith and belief in Christ this week during the Ken Freeman event. I think God honored the effort and prayer of the many local churches who put this event on. Many in our own church were challenged and encouraged to make sure of their salvation. I was reminded of Philippians 2:12 where we are told to “work out our salvation” I think many people did that this week. They made sure that they really believed, not only in their mind, but in their heart. In 1 John 5:13 we are told that we should know that we have eternal life. I think this past week has reignited in me a passion to make sure that the Gospel is presented clearly and powerfully in everything I do and say.

In my talking and counseling with many who responded this week, there is such confusion about salvation. I have talked to many who are unsure, uncertain, and scared because they don’t know if they have done enough. It’s not about what we do, it’s about what Jesus has done! We obey and we follow because we love Christ, not because we’re scared of punishment or scared of losing our salvation. That is not an abundant joyful life when we have no hope. I think we take the focus off of Christ when we think that salvation is something that is gained and lost on the basis of our effort. How incredibly self-centered that thought is. It completely devalues how Christ suffered on the cross. 1 Peter 3:18 says that Jesus Christ died once for our sins, to bring us to God. My hope and prayer is that our church will have a passion for sharing the hope of their salvation with others.

Mike

I am a former design engineer who now pastors Cornerstone Community Church in Galax, Virginia. I'm passionate about following Jesus and I love technology. I've been married to Jennifer for 28 years, and we have three adult children.

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