The main focus I as a Christian should have is sharing the gospel of Christ. The Good News of the Death, Burial, and Resurrection of Jesus. How that by Jesus coming to this earth and dying on the cross for our sins, we have the opportunity to live forever with Christ in heaven.
We at the Central Baptist Church have been focusing a lot on the importance of our personal evangelism. How spreading the gospel should be a FOCUS for each one of us. During a discussion recently, it was brought up that much of our conversation to others on their need for salvation focuses on eternity. This is absolutely true, and should be an important factor in a person’s decision to follow Christ and accept him into their heart as their personal Savior. But what if we put more of a focus on the benefits of living a Christian life right now!?! Would that help influence more to listen to the message?
Back to the title of this post, “If Jesus was here….” how awesome would that be?!? I have never ran a poll on this, but my belief is that Jesus would be a top vote getter in the ole’ question: “If you could have lunch with one person past or present, who would it be?” This post could go in the direction that we do have that opportunity through prayer (this is TRUE!), but not the direction I want to go in this conversation.
Instead, lets look at a group of people who had the opportunity to eat lunch with Jesus, his disciples. For years, they followed Jesus around. They listened to the parables. They witnessed demons cast out of men and into pigs. They walked next to the formerly lame. They saw blind men gain their sight. They talked to people who had not previously been able to speak. (Now I’m starting to sound like a Christmas song) Though they experienced ALL THIS AND MORE, Jesus said to them, “Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away; for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.” – John 16:7
Now there is some perspective. The disciples did not want Jesus to leave, but He knew it was better for them if He did go. Not just better “someday in the distant future”. Better Today. Better Tomorrow. Better for eternity. Jesus wants to change our lives NOW, all we have to do is let Him work…