I do word studies a lot. The last few days I have been on the word ‘grow’, in some NT verses of scripture. As concerning Christian foundations, we have only one, Jesus Christ. This word ‘grow’, in the NT, is only possible if we are in Christ, and we abide in Him.
That which abides in Christ, fully, grows and produces much fruit, Jesus said. John 15;1-6. Those are two very key words, ‘abides’, and ‘fully’. The statistics are quite depressing, as we look at the numbers, in Christianity. The more world-friendly, social churches, are all quite popular, and have many members.
Many in mainstream Christianity, are losing members, especially the 25-40 year old group. They want something different. What has happened? My view is that many have lost focus. There is only one real answer, being in, and abiding in, Jesus Christ. Following Jesus Christ is not going to be the most popular path, to most. Jesus said, “Few there be that find it.”
His ways are not our ways. He is not concerned with modern, elaborate buildings, only with those people who are within. His views of what people sacrifice, and give, is much different, than most. Remember the account of those casting into the treasury, and the widow, who gave two mites?
We need a genuine move of God today. I was watching as a storm approached, yesterday evening. The thunder, the lightning, then the wind, and the rain. I watched as many hustled to safety. I suppose some would view what I thought strange. I prayed to our Mighty God, this may be what we need the worst. I want to see God move, in our countries, in our lives.
I am afraid most have gotten away from the one we need to abide in. Much of the fruit is lacking, and for some, may be none. The pruning seems to be already working. God is watching, for healing, and fruit. We desperately need the life found in the vine. God, do what you must, to send us back to safety.
Do not be silent, many need the storm. We need the rain. Help us to realize, that the ark is Jesus Christ, we will find shelter there. We need You to move, we will soon stray, without You. Whatever is needed, to make us healthy again, in the body of Christ, is for the best.
Eph. 2:21 says, “In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord.” 2nd peter 3:18 says, “But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and for ever.”
This temple spoken of is not material in nature. It is people, growing in Jesus Christ. To grow in grace, we need to receive grace, and also show it to others. To grow in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, He will have to be Lord, Master, we are His servants, surrendered to Him.
When we do these things, we abide in Him, and He abides in us. The fruit will show what we are attached to. God, revive us, again. World over, Amen.
Yes, Lord please
Revive us again;
Fill each heart with Thy love;
May each soul be rekindled
With fire from above.
For Your glory and our sake.
Amen.