Tribune Content Agency
Is believing in Church and God enough?Feb 19, 2020 |
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| From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham
Q: I am an exchange student from the Middle East and find it confusing to hear about Christians in America compared to Christians in my homeland. I believe in the Church and I believe in God, but a group of friends tell me that isn’t enough; is that true? — M.E. A: Many people from around the world claim that they believe in Jesus, the church, and even the Bible. But that isn’t enough to be accepted as a follower of Christ; even the demons believe and tremble (James 2:19). We must confess and repent of our sins and receive Jesus as Lord and Savior. “But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become the children of God, to those who believe in His name” (John 1:12). To illustrate, a person can go to the airport with the intention of making a trip to a certain destination. He makes a flight reservation, purchases the ticket, and gets in line at the gate. There are three calls for boarding, but he fails to enter through the gate and walk the ramp to the plane’s cabin. He has not committed himself by getting on board. A person may believe in God, the Bible, and the church but not surrender to Christ. This kind of belief does not involve complete commitment and obedience to Him. The moment we receive Him, we are born again and belong wholly to Christ. The Holy Spirit comes on board in our souls and God’s nature begins to transform us into His obedient children. We are to pray that His Word will put our hearts and minds on Him, thereby granting peace of mind that comes only from God in Heaven. ======== (This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.) (c)2020 BILLY GRAHAM DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC. |
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