Jesus said to His disciples: “Things that cause people to stumble are bound to come, but woe to anyone through whom they come. Luke 17:1
The Bible, God’s Word, is very clear: If you believe Jesus is the resurrected Son of the One True God, know God is loving and Holy, and your sins are forgiven, then your behavior must show it. Actions are the evidence of one’s true heart and a strong influence on those seeking answers, or struggling with temptation. The believer is called to be a light of hope guiding others through the storms of pain and sorrow and down the straight and narrow road of righteousness.
In this same passage of scripture Jesus commands that we forgive others, over and over and over. If we are to be Christ’s witness, then our testimony begins with forgiveness. The first step in a sinner’s new birth is forgiveness. This abstract, illogical act is in complete and total contrast to this world and its agenda. God is the source of justice and condemnation, but He is doing everything possible to bring about forgiveness and reconciliation, so this must start with His Body, the church and its people. Be forgiving, extend grace, strengthen and guide one another so that all may know the Love of Christ.
Love,
Gretchen