To Set A Captive Free
E. A. Hoffman wrote both the words and melody of, “Have You Been To Jesus?” The song is best known for its pointed question:
“Are you washed in the blood of the lamb?” Countless handmade signs have dotted the byways of America with a similar question:
“Are you saved?” Both questions reflect Paul’s words to the Corinthians:
“Examine yourselves, whether you are in the faith.” – 2 Corinthians 13:5
Observers notice that churches full of people often have few saints - lives of self -denial that are dying to self. Paul wrote, “For we who live are always delivered unto death for Jesus’ sake, that the life also of Jesus may be made known in our mortal flesh.” 2 Corinthians 4:11. Paul knew the life of Jesus had not begun within some who professed him. A profession of faith had been made, baptism had occurred, but there had been no death to pride and self-will. The birth from Above had not been received, “lowly in heart” had not begun.
Jesus said, “But now you seek to kill me, a man that has told you the truth, which I heard from God…” - John 8:40. Paul wrote, “Have I become your enemy by telling you the truth?”- Galatians 4:16 Our reaction to those who point out our sin indicates whether Jesus’ life has begun within us. Peterreceived Paul’s rebuke. (Galatians 2:11, 2 Peter 3:15)
Distinctive teachings and practices have no power to bring us to surrender to God and trust in Jesus. Both surrender and trust require a humbling that pierces pride . Jesus said except we turn and become as little children we will not enter the kingdom of heaven. Peter and James quote, “God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” Pride must be repeatedly emptied for our perfecting.
The Lord has been patient with many churches that have ignored or concealed sin. Viewing an assembly as an organization to be controlled, inclines us to conceal rather than confess. But if we view ourselves as members one of another, it is easier to confess and speak to restore others. (Galatians 6:1, James 5:19-20) The Lord discerns among the churches those who are his. -Revelation 3:4
“Everyone who is proud in heart is an abomination to Jehovah. Though hand join in hand, he shall not be unpunished.” (Proverbs 16:5) Are you washed?
5/11/04, #35