Here is how to join us in reflection of the spirit of this upcoming holiday season.
JESUS vs. DEATH: "Then Jesus said, 'Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?' " John 11:40
Verse 26 of this exchange between Martha and Jesus is the central question in the whole Bible. DO YOU BELIEVE? There is no more important question that exists in the entire Bible than a reader's faith in Jesus. There you go- salvation wrapped up in a little bundle and simply handed to anybody that read the Good News. It's not handed to the scholars or scribes or Bible bangers or do-gooders of the world. It's not handed to those who do good things or are good people. Eternal life is given to believers, and only to believers.
Martha had the right answer in her response to Jesus "I believe that you are the Christ [the savior], the Son of God, who has come into this world." She didn't respond that he was a good teacher or a good prophet or the good judge of earthly actions. She expressed her belief in Jesus as the ultimate born on this Earth, from a heavenly father, Savior of the world. Nothing less is the correct title, and nothing more is necessary obtain salvation.
Unfortunately, I've gotten into some fairly large disagreements with many self-identified Christians about the message of this passage. They still declare some additional element for salvation- be it baptism or good works or a good soul. It pains me to no end that Jesus offered them salvation, with no strings attached, yet many people try to attach their own strings and requirements entrance into heaven. Perhaps, like when Jesus sighed, he wept again in verse 35- for those that don't get this crystal clear message of free salvation for all.
GOOD NEWS OF THE DAY: I believe, with all my heart, that Jesus died for my sins and I am forgiven.
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