When Jesus came on the scene in Palestine 2000 years ago he turned the popular theories on the character, the nature, and the kingdom of God on its head. Those that were 'religious' on the whole, rejected and killed Jesus not because He was wrong, but because He didn't meet with their skewed expectations. They wanted freedom from the tyranny of Rome. Jesus came to free them from sin. The Rabbis wanted God to exalt them so they and their temple could become the center of the universe. Jesus came to make God the center of the universe.
Today, because of the skewed teachings of the popular church, the same thing is happening. While the church is praying for wealth, happiness, reputation, and power, the unbelieving world is getting the wrong idea of Who and what God is about. Jesus Himself said "seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness." Jesus is still looking for a people who are desirous to be free from sin. 2000 years ago He found a rag-tag bunch of fishermen and tax-collectors and prostitutes. They formed the nucleus of His new church. It is very easy to hide from God in religion. He hasn't changed. He is still looking for a people who are willing to be freed from sin. And the only ones who will accept Him are those willing to admit to that need of freedom.
The religious in Jesus day thought they had arrived. They had no need of a Savior from sin, they wanted wealth and power. What about you? Are you hiding from God in religion? Or are you willing to admit that you are a sinner, and in desperate need of a Savior?
Today, because of the skewed teachings of the popular church, the same thing is happening. While the church is praying for wealth, happiness, reputation, and power, the unbelieving world is getting the wrong idea of Who and what God is about. Jesus Himself said "seek ye first the kingdom of God and His righteousness." Jesus is still looking for a people who are desirous to be free from sin. 2000 years ago He found a rag-tag bunch of fishermen and tax-collectors and prostitutes. They formed the nucleus of His new church. It is very easy to hide from God in religion. He hasn't changed. He is still looking for a people who are willing to be freed from sin. And the only ones who will accept Him are those willing to admit to that need of freedom.
The religious in Jesus day thought they had arrived. They had no need of a Savior from sin, they wanted wealth and power. What about you? Are you hiding from God in religion? Or are you willing to admit that you are a sinner, and in desperate need of a Savior?
