the basic message # E140
Philippians 3:19b-20
Their mind is on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven.
Patriotism is a wonderful thing unless it overshadows our relationship with God. Our total allegiance should be to Jesus Christ, and we should be loyal to him above all else. Family, friends and country need to be placed in their proper perspective to God. Is that difficult for Christians to understand?
Matthew 5:38-39
“You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye, and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, Do not resist an evil person. If someone strikes you on the right cheek, turn to him the other also.”
While driving down the Interstate this morning, I saw a car that had “Eye for eye, tooth for tooth” written on the back window. I’ve always found it interesting that people who have never picked up a Bible can recite this passage. Sadly, not many can recite the passage above in which Jesus Christ refutes the law of retaliation. Whenever I point this out to people, they invariably say, “So John, should we just let people walk all over us?” You read the passage above and decide for yourself. Is Jesus ever kidding?
Luke 12:4-5
“I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. But I will show you whom you should fear: Fear him who, after the killing of the body, has power to throw you into hell. Yes, I tell you, fear him.”
Isn’t it nice that we can only be killed once? Think about it- if you’re a Christian, you can only die once, and then you’ll be in paradise. If you are indeed solidly in Christ, a loss of your life means being present with God. Does anyone have a problem with that?
Matthew 6:14-15
“For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.”
It’s really hard to forgive a murderer, but Jesus doesn’t give us the option to question his judgment in the scripture above. I don’t think our human instincts will ever allow us to automatically forgive; it only comes through walking with Christ. Need another passage?
Romans 12:19-21
Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary: “If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
And so, my friends, I offer my scriptural foundation for what I believe. My feelings won’t be shared by many this week, but that’s okay. Some of you will be angry. If so, you must be angry with Jesus Christ as well.