"As the body
without the spirit is dead, so faith without deeds is dead." (James 2:26
NIV)
In
opposition to the prevailing 16th century "theologies," the Reformers
correctly taught that a person is saved by faith in Christ alone. And from the
view of God's sacrifice on Calvary, that is correct. We cannot add anything to
that finished work of God. It is complete and sufficient. We simply believe in
God's only begotten Son as our sacrifice, and our salvation is complete.
Yet, our
belief in the crucified Christ as the Eternal Savior only becomes authentic
faith by our action of repentance and departing from iniquity. Let's review the
biblical steps. Godly sorrow produces repentance. And repentance is the action
that "leads to
salvation and leaves no regret." So you see, even the Apostle Paul
taught active faith rather than passive belief.
Immediate
action is the key. When's the best time to improve and grow? Now! As soon as
you "hear" the inspired Word of God . . . as soon as you know the
Holy Spirit is nudging you . . . as soon as you learn a truth.
In the
same way your spirit gives life to your body, action gives life to your faith.
In fact, without action there is no faith, because faith is BOTH your
substantive basis AND your active evidence that your belief is real (Hebrews
11:1). Act while the Word of God is inspiring. Act while the Spirit is
speaking. Act while your faith is alive.
When
action is added to belief, faith is created. Action is evidence that your
belief is more than passive theory. Action proves that you truly believe the
Word of God. Action proves that you are truly following Christ.
Dear
Father, thank you for your Son who died on the Cross of Calvary for our
salvation. Empower our belief in that sacrifice to act repentantly in true
faith. I pray this in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Why
wait? Act today!
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