“If God Lets Me Preach” 

I’m concerned. 

I hear so many sermons that include vague statements like “Jesus can make a difference in your life.” And I’m conflicted. Of COURSE He can! He does! But that’s not the #1 reason why He came. 

So why isn’t the true, complete gospel preached more often in our churches? I don’t think some church attenders even KNOW the true biblical gospel, and they may be destined for hell (Matthew 7:14). Others have a vague sense that “if I believe God exists,” “accept Jesus into my heart,” or “believe that Jesus died on the cross for the sins of everyone in the world [so therefore ‘I’m covered’]” - that “mental assent” is all that’s required (even though “…the demons believe-and shudder!” - James 2:19). 

Do preachers think we’ll bore of hearing the gospel each week? Are they afraid people will be offended by hearing about God as a Righteous Judge who must punish sin? Will mentioning hell and sin and repentance and contrition clear out the pews?!

Even the songs on Christian radio talk generally about God “following us” with his love, and how that will make a difference in our lives. It’s not a bad thing to say, it’s just incomplete. Jesus came to seek and save sinners! (Luke 19:10) If preachers don’t present the true, complete gospel, people cannot be truly saved from spiritual death and hell. And there is no second chance after you're dead! (Luke 16:19-31) There may be false converts in our pews, our small groups, and our Vacation Bible Schools! The “Good News” won’t be received as the miracle it is unless we humans realize we are completely incapable of fellowship with God without Christ’s life, suffering, crucifixion, death, and resurrection being credited to us! 

So I’m concerned, and I want to do my part, as God sees fit to give me opportunity to teach or preach.

I will do my best to teach the Bible to kids, teens, or adults in any setting. I will strive to present the gospel clearly, completely, and in a biblically accurate (and age-appropriate) way. There is NOTHING more important in the universe!

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