Walk in the Light

“For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God. Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things, the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience.” (Ephesians 5:5-6 ESV) 

People want to hear about the love of God but do not want to hear about the wrath of God. They do not want to hear about it because it would force them to conform to the Word of God. People do not like to be told what to do. So many pastors today do not preach about the wrath of God and, in doing so, jeopardize the eternity of their flock.

Paul is telling us that although we may hear “empty words,” the denial of the wrath of God, that God forgives everyone, and that those who talk of God’s wrath are zealots, these are simply false teachings. My friends, judgment will fall upon every human at some point in that we will all stand before God to answer for our deeds, both good and bad. Paul cautions us to avoid falling into the hopeless destiny of the unbeliever. We should reflect Christ to them, but we should not partake in their actions that are a rebellion against God.

We who are saved in Christ are His saints on earth. We cannot trivialize anything that is in opposition to God. God has chosen you to bear His restored image, to be His mirror. There is nothing less desirable than a broken mirror.

In today's society, we see what Paul described in 1 Timothy, “Now the Spirit expressly says that in later times some will depart from the faith by devoting themselves to deceitful spirits and teachings of demons, through the insincerity of liars whose consciences are seared,” (1 Timothy 4:1-2 ESV). Those who preach a false gospel are devoted to deceitful spirits. There are those who preach the word of God as a comedy routine or use terms and phrases that are improper for the pulpit. Preaching is not entertainment. These preachers will stand before God, be held to a higher standard than others, and answer for their actions.

Do not stand with the sons of disobedience in any way other than to lead them to the truth of the gospel. As Jesus said, the sick need the doctor, not those who are healthy. The love of God is real, and so is the wrath of God. Walk in the light and abstain from those things whose origin rests in darkness.

Peace and Grace!