Thursday, August 3, 2017

Can others see Jesus in you?

DAILY BIBLE READING:

2 Chronicles 33:14–34:33 
Romans 16:10-27 
Psalm 26:1-12 
Proverbs 20:19

TODAY'S BIBLE VERSE(S):

Romans 16:19 (CSB) "The report of your obedience has reached everyone. Therefore I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise about what is good, and yet innocent about what is evil."

REFLECTIONS ON TODAY'S BIBLE VERSE(S):

The biblical book of Romans was written to the first century Christians who lived in Rome. And some would say that this book, among the other New Testament books, is like the snow-capped peak of a mountain that rewards the one who climbs it with exhilarating views. There is so much to be enjoyed in this incredible letter to those early Christians.

Our Verse for Today reveals that as the Apostle Paul was ending his epistle to the Roman Christians, he bragged on them. He told them that not only had they been obedient to the things of God, it had also become public knowledge. People were taking note of the fact that they were devout Jesus-followers.

Certain things happen when a Christian is serious about following Jesus:

  • It emboldens weak Christians.
  • It provides an example for baby Christians.
  • It creates unity and camaraderie with mature Christians.
  • It demonstrates for the lost world that Jesus makes a visible difference in those who follow Him (and so it gives credibility to those who share the Gospel).
  • Etc., etc., etc.
Friend, can others see Jesus in you? 

I didn't ask if they know you are saved. I asked if you are so serious about following Him that you are taking obedience to His Word seriously. 

Only then will believers around you take note and be encouraged. Only then will unbelievers around you take note and realize that there just might be something to Jesus and the Gospel.

Live in such a way that others might one day be able to say about you:

"The report of your obedience has reached everyone. Therefore I rejoice over you, but I want you to be wise about what is good, and yet innocent about what is evil." (Romans 16:19 - CSB)

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