The Narrow Road Paradox, Part 2.
The New Testament was written for a culture much like our own. Acceptance and individualism allowed everything to be approved and welcomed. Such a melting pot results in a big mess. Salvation brings many promises, and among them are Freedom and Purity. As we begin our journey down the Narrow Road we find them working in harmony, and our lives are better for having them both.
The Narrow Road Paradox, Part 1.
Jesus told us that salvation is traveling a narrow road leading to life. We have different ideas of the road being dangerous, tight, and unforgiving. When God tells us to incorporate two elements of life that seem contrary to each other, we need to learn how they work together to speed us on the narrow road.
Do you believe that you are a Christian? If so, 33 percent of the world’s population would agree with you, based on research by Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in 2006.
How do you know that you are a Christian? What truths make an impact on your life to the point that you call yourself a Christian? There are four basic points we must understand, believe and live in light of before we can claim the name “Christian.”
At our church, the first Sunday of the month is Communion Sunday. Today it just felt like a great way to kick off the Christmas Season.
I also had the opportunity to lead worship this morning. We sang a couple of carols, and then built off of “O Come, All Ye Faithful” all the way to “Here I Am To Worship.” It was sort of going from Jesus’ birth to death all in 20 minutes.
Of course, Jesus’ death and resurrection are the point behind Jesus’ birth. If Jesus had just been a prophet or important man, but was unable to satisfy the requirements of the perfect sacrifice, we wouldn’t have much to celebrate. We don’t celebrate the birth of Abraham, Moses or David. We don’t all get together on Barack Obama’s or Stephen Harper’s or Queen Elizabeth’s birthday. We don’t put out lights and decorations for President’s Day in February (at least, not yet).
If weren’t for Christ’s body broken for you, and Christ’s blood shed for you, this time of year might not be much of a celebration at all.
Chris MacKinnon 