I think most of the ‘issues’ of the American church ultimately revolve around what we think of the state of human beings apart from Christ. Are we basically good with a few rough edges that need smoothing out? Are we able to choose Christ out of our purely human nature? Is NOT choosing Christ going against our human nature? Or are we born in a depraved state and in a ‘natural’ state of rebellion and hatred toward God?
“But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressions–it is by grace you have been saved. And God raised us up with Christ and seated us with him in the heavenly realms in Christ Jesus, in order that in the coming ages he might show the incomparable riches of his grace, expressed in his kindness to us in Christ Jesus.” Eph 1: 4-7
From the moment we believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we are not only assured of spending eternity in His presence, we actually become citizens of heaven while we finish our earthly journeys. We become soldiers of the Cross on a mission ‘behind enemy lines’. We are called to do battle for the souls of men.
“Again, if the trumpet does not sound a clear call, who will get ready for battle?” 1 Cor 14:8
P.S. If you are wondering about the Born4Battle moniker, it has nothing to do with wanting to fight/bicker/prove MY point about anything. It comes from two specific things from my past. A song that made a deep impression on a soldier was one- “Run to the Battle”, by Steve Camp. The other was a book - “Born for Battle” by R. Arthur Matthews dealing with spiritual warfare.
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What we believe about ourselves will determine how we live.
I believe I was born in sin and can do nothing good without God…I don’t think I came to this understanding on my own. I think the Spirit led me to this place.
I want God but I think it is because He wanted me first.
Good words, Michelle. . .remember when Jesus told his closest disciples “You did not choose me, but I chose you. . .”?
Then there are John 6:44 and 6:65. . .