Entitled: John 3:16, or Am I really that Crazy
Fri, Nov 21, 2008
I have been thinking about growing older and John 3:16.
I know, it’s hard to see how those two things connect. Let me explain.
When I was younger, a teenager, and had just come to know Jesus – I really believed that God loved the whole world and sent His Son to die for everyone – that whoever believes in Him would not perish but have everlasting life – phew!
As I have aged, I have found myself starting to believe that there is only a percentage of people who will really believe this and so it’s only possible for most or some people to come to know Jesus (this is one of those things you would never say out loud, but most people really think it). I know that verse doesn’t say that everyone will come to know Jesus – but it sure does say that He died for everyone. Jesus came so that people would have life – all people! I don’t believe that God was willing to settle for a percentage and the rest are just damned to hell. I think God is an optimist, hoping that none would perish, as 2 Peter 3:9 says.
So the question I have been asking myself lately, is:
Am I crazy enough to believe that we can reach everyone with the Gospel and see their lives turned around for eternity?
It makes me ask some questions, that’s for sure.
- What are the barriers in each persons life that need to be removed so they can see the living Christ and His sacrifice for what it is?
- How must I live my life differently?
- How should the church reallocate it’s dollars and volunteer hours?
So, am I that crazy? I think so. I am a “Wild and Crazy Guy…”
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November 24th, 2008 at 7:24 pm
Kent,
First, I like the conversation you started with yourself. Hope it’s o.k. to join. Yes, God does desire for all to come to saving knowledge of Him; however, I’m not sure you are asking the right question(s).
Question #1: “What are the barriers …that need to be removed?”
Who’s responsible for this removal?
Instead of looking at what needs to changed or taken out of someone’s life, perhaps we should be thinking of what we can add to his or her life.
Question #2: “…must I live..”
Makes you responsible. Maybe the focus is wrong.
Question #3: Interesting question. Again the focus may be the problem.
April 29th, 2011 at 10:37 pm
Kent,
I realize this is an old post, however it is an extremely important topic!
I LOVE that u r asking those questions! All of us, the church, worldwide, should be asking those exact questions. I think that is EXACTLY what the Bible speaks of over and over…
“God is not willing that ANY should perish, but that ALL would come to repentence and to the acknowledging of the truth.” Also, Jesus said… “If I be lifted up, I will draw ALL men to me.” Concerning personal responsibility… “Go into ALL the world and preach My Gospel…” and “Be an example to the believers in word, in conversation (lifestyle), in deed, in charity…” and “Beloved, let us love one another; for he who loves is born and knows God” and “By your love shall ALL men know that you are My disciples.”
That is very strong stuff. We have a responsibility to pray, preach, and live in a way that changes the world around us! We can do it! Think of all the times in history that someone went against the grain and accomplished great things! ;D
“Seek first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness, and ALL these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6:33
April 29th, 2011 at 10:38 pm
oops… “is born of God”