Chief of Sinners
“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief” (1 Timothy 1:15).
Throughout my life I’ve had those “holy-inspectors” who feel obligated to point out my sins. I’m an easy target. Are you still on the mission of telling people what they should not be doing? Do you threaten others? Do you use the word of God as a weapon?
Honestly, Christians know when they mess up. They don’t need you to remind them or to be their Holy Spirit. They’ve got Bibles. They know the truth. If we spend the majority of our time reproving, rebuking, and correcting others instead of encouraging, edifying, and exhorting them we won’t draw others to Christ; we will repel them.
Now that I’ve had years to grow in Christ and fully receive His undeserved, unearned, unmerited favor, I simply tell the accusers they are right! I am a sinner! Okay, what now? Personally, I have found much greater results in boasting on Jesus and directing others to Him. I’ve seen lives transform.
As much as I hate sin and the misery it brings, I love Jesus and the mercy He brought. I love the great victory that is ours in Christ. I love the precious blood of Christ that cleanses me from all sin. And my love for Christ constrains me to follow Him. It’s amazing what Christ can do.
Let’s stop trying to control people with our threats and fear mongering. Instead, let’s start compelling them to know, love, and follow Christ. Brag on Jesus!
January 30th, 2010 at 12:01 pm
Forrest,
This is what every believer should be doing. I believe the New Testament is about, redemption, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Christ paid the price. He knew the new life we now live would not be easy. He is there for us , to restore us and make us into His image. I like what Paul wrote in 1Corinthians 11:1. We must follow or imitate Christ.
Thank you for your encouragement in this matter.
In Christ and in our prayers,
Don
Gal 6:10