Understanding and Obedience
Luke 24:46-48, "...Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things."
It is a wonderful thing when the Scriptures are opened to us with understanding. The apostles continued to wrestle with the fact that Jesus would die, and then rise from the dead. Verse 45-46 states, "Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures, and said unto them...." It was imperative that the apostles know and understand that "...it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day." I rejoice in our God who sent His Son to die for our sins, and to rise the third day for our justification. But what are we to do with our understanding? Verse 47 speaks to what we are to do, "...that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem."
God wants us to take the Gospel of Christ around the world as faithful witnesses expressing the truth of Jesus' death and resurrection. He came to bring salvation to all who would believe. Will you take the Gospel to those around you? Will you support missionaries who are doing the same? Will you distribute Gospel tracts as you are going? With understanding comes the responsibility of obedience.
Let's give the blessed Gospel of Jesus to those around us as faithful witnesses for Christ. Verse 48, "And ye are witnesses of these things."
Have a great day sharing Christ with others!
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. We recently celebrated the resurrection of Christ. What does His death and resurrection accomplish for us?
2. How can your “understanding” improve as it relates to your Christian walk?
3. How does Luke 24:48 impact the way you live? Are you an obedient witness?
4. Do you support the efforts of missionaries? How are you a help to them?