Cornerstone

Some of the excitement about the Second Appearing of our Lord is troubling. It is not the second appearing of the Lord that is troubling but rather the blatant commercialization of this truth by some Christians. To see respected Christian leaders using this truth for their own advantage is sickening. Movies and book series whether fiction or non-fiction used to frighten believers (most non-believers have no interest in this material) in the guise of teaching a scriptural truth are tainted with the appearance of covert manipulation. What is the motivation if it is not to get on the bandwagon of the Christian fear-fad which is a proven method for selling mediocre books and movies? I am troubled as well by the lack of a scripturally focused message in these materials. The emphasis should be not on whether we go up in the rapture or are left behind to suffer the horrors of the Tribulation. That fear comes out of the lazy American’s desire for ease, comfort and luxury. The emphasis should not be on what the sequence of events will be in the last days. That is a perfectionist’s craving to be right about everything in doctrine as well as Bible trivia. The emphasis should not be on the meaning of “generation”, the use of modern technology, or the definition of 666. The emphasis should be on living a holy life right now. Peter said it this way: Since we know that God is going to bring a terrible judgment on this world someday shouldn’t we be doing all that we can right now to live lives that are pleasing to Him and are an appealing witness to those who do not know Jesus as their Lord?

By Dr. Gayle Woods

Romans 13:1-5 (3) … “Do that which is good…”

Maybe you have heard the old expression? “You can drag a horse to water, but you can’t make him drink.” Yes, and the same holds true for good works. God commands that we do good works but it is only those who love Him who will obey.

The fact hold true, however, we are commanded to do good works. This implies a number of things. God sees a real necessity in doing good works. Good works are for a divine purpose. Whether good works are received or not is not what is of importance… our obedience is what is at stake. We do not have a choice in whether to do good works or not. Finally, there are needy benefactors.

If this is the case then what must we do. First, there should be no need for coercion if you truly love God. Second, there should be no question about your obedience to His command if He is first in your life.

When God commands you to do good works and then you do them under protest or from the wrong motivation then they become as filthy rags in His sight. Works are not what is the focus of importance but love which results in obedience.

Dr. Gayle Woods