July 24, 2018

Pleasing God

“But as we have been approved by God to be entrusted with the gospel, even so we speak, not as pleasing men, but God, who tests our hearts.”  1 Thess. 2:4

Our walk of faith cannot be done to please people.  It must be done to win the praises of the One we praise – our Lord God.  The Galatians had been easily swayed, as evidenced by Paul’s letter to them.  The church at Thessalonica had shown great faith.  Paul was writing to thank the church for its faith and to remind the people to stand firm in their faith, rather than be on the verge of perishing for lack of knowledge.  Are we on such a verge?  Beloved, this is the gospel of Jesus Christ:

• He was crucified;
• He rose from the grave;
• He ascended to sit at the right hand of His Father.

 Therefore, as a follower and disciple of Jesus, we are called to:

• Crucify the flesh;
• Experience the power of His resurrection;
• Be seated in heavenly places.

The full gospel will be an offensive message to many, offending those who do not think there is a need to crucify our flesh, that there is a resurrection power that is available this side of heaven, or that we have a heavenly position.    We are seeking to please God, not win the affection or approval of others.