Usually my article has something to do with the Sunday service but this week, not so much. Sunday, we will still focus on the gifts of the Spirit but today, I want to take a moment to address something I heard this past month.
Overheard at a table in a coffee shop, “Our church isn’t like most others, we preach the truth the way it was meant to be presented.” My ears perked up and I mentally leaned in to eavesdrop on the conversation. You see, I’m always on the lookout for the perfect church and could hardly wait to be amazed. Hate to say this, but I was rather disappointed. The only thing I heard was how bad the other churches were compared to his and the fact that the only people who were going to Heaven were those who believed like they did.
There are days I would have enjoyed stepped into that theological debate, but this was not one of them. The commitment to his position was obvious, and, I dare say, not open for discussion. With that said, it did get me to thinking about positions in Heaven and the request from Salome in Matthew 20:21 when she asked for special considerations for her two sons. Jesus then let them know in verse 23 “Jesus told them, “You will indeed drink from my bitter cup. But I have no right to say who will sit on my right or my left. My Father has prepared those places for the ones he has chosen.” NLT.
How I longed to walk up to him during his monologue (I heard little from the other person he was talking to) and suggest there is a special place in Heaven for him, right beside me and all others who proclaim Jesus as Lord and Savior. Pride goes before the fall but I do think people need to be ready to come alongside and help the prideful fallen back to their feet. None of us is perfect and the only perfect church is in Glory but we do have a Savior who fully understands this and is there equally for us all. Scripture says:
For you are all children of God through faith in Christ Jesus. And all who have been united with Christ in baptism have put on Christ, like putting on new clothes. There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus. Gal 3:26-28 NLT
For God does not show favoritism. Rom 2:11 NLT
So, for those who are out there thinking that you or your gathering is the only way to Christ, remember this:
John 14:6 Jesus said, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
John 3:5 Jesus answered, “Very truly I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.” We can't get to heaven by works, because God doesn't pick favorites.
This Sunday, Pastor Todd talks more about the gifts of the Spirit and yes, there is a test. Please join us either in person or online at 10:30 AM this Sunday. The service will be broadcast online on our website (https://www.mainavefellowship.ca/socialplatforms), or you are more than welcome to join us in person at 402 Main Ave. W in Sundre, AB.
Blessings,
Our Mission “To live the love of Christ”
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