Articles
God Cares
God Cares
Recently we have seen Satan and evil taking place in its purest and strongest ways around the world. Sin was introduced long ago by Satan (in form of serpent), and has plagued man from that time until now. Evil is seen in many forms, and in many degrees. Satan is happy when sin prevails and God is forgotten. However, alas God still has power over all, and only by trusting and being faithful to Him can we expect to be part of Christ' victory.
HOW DOES GOD SEE SIN? By looking at His Word in the Scriptures we find God never has any part with sin. Out of His great love for us, He sent Jesus and the Gospel to save us from sin. (Matthew 1:21; Romans 1:16) Without that plan, and the love He and His Son have for us, we would be helplessly lost and without hope. From Genesis through Revelation God unfolds that plan, ensuring salvation for us if we listen and obey Him.
Sin, by God's definition, is lawlessness (God's law), all unrighteousness, and knowing His will but refusing to do it. Throughout the Old Testament we learn of people who refused to listen and paid the penalty for their sins, many times losing their physical lives. The New Testament is God's final revelation and teaching for man to follow today.
"For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 6:23) Sin, when unaccounted for, will eventually bring death to any who are unwilling to listen to His plan and obey. (Mark 16:16)
"But each one is tempted when he is carried away and enticed by his own lust. Then when lust has conceived, it gives birth to SIN; and when SIN IS ACCOMPLISHED, IT BRINGS FORTH DEATH. " (James 1:14,15)
In the Scriptures, death includes the idea of separation (e.g.,physical death is the separation of body and spirit - James 2:26).
The result of sin is "spiritual death", or separation from God. (Isaiah 59)
Do we really appreciate what a serious problem it really is?? The Gospel of Christ addresses the problem of sin. This Gospel was authored by the Father, delivered and put into effect by the Son of God, and revealed, finished by the Holy Spirit. This GOSPEL is referenced by Paul in First Corinthians, chapter 15 verses 1 through 4. He taught that Jesus died, was buried, and was raised on the third day....according to the Scriptures. By Christ' resurrection the Gospel has its power. That same power is available to us today, just as it was back then. Have you obeyed and stayed the course? A question each of us must answer.
Please think about these things. God cares, and is patient. (2 Peter 3:9).
"The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but IS PATIENT TOWARD YOU, not wishing for any to perish but FOR ALL TO COME TO REPENTANCE. " (2 Peter 3:9)
Ross
