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IEA Devo 2022 spiritual rescue • Becoming a Disciple-Maker

Spiritual Rescue – The Disciple-Making Lifestyle

“…whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death…” (James 5:20)

 

Part One

The tragic condition of every person who willingly chooses to sin, is spiritual separation from God! That reality remains unchanged until repentance and personal faith in Jesus Christ – results in their salvation. (Romans 6:23) The apostle Paul explains this condition saying, “…all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) This is why after believing, it is a Christian’s sacred privilege to share the gospel. Jesus said, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be proclaimed in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:14

The Bible explains, “…He gave us our new lives through the truth of His Word…” (James 1:18) This spiritual reality is why doing all the good works in the world cannot take the place of believing the truth – which God has spoken about His Son. The Scriptures proclaim, “…the Word became flesh and…we beheld His glory…” (John 1:14)

 

Part Two

Spiritual rebirth is not an elusive dream nor is it a wish – it is a requested reality! The Bible clearly presents this wonderful life-changing gift. The experience is called conversion, salvation, and redemption, throughout the Scriptures, and we are therefore admonished with these timeless words, “…you must be born again…” (John 3:7)

Romans 6:23 explains that “The wages of sin is death…” – this is why humanity’s condition is so urgent. The Lord verified that universally, spiritual death is produced by sin. He also warned about God’s future judgment, the certainty of physical death, and the reality of hell. He described all this in the most graphic terms. He taught saying, “…fear Him who is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.” (Matthew 10:28) The Lord was not speaking about Satan when He told us to fear. Instead, He was speaking about His Father in heaven, so our spiritual rescue mission is definitely needed! This is why King Solomon was inspired to write, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom …” (Proverbs 9:10)

 

Part Three

Speaking personally about the Lord’s activity in our lives translates the miracle of His presence — into tangible understanding for those who talk with us. Our explanation about God’s love and power will put them both within the reach of anyone who is a genuine seeker. The Bible says, “those who call upon the Lord will be saved.” (Romans 10:13)

Helping to rescue lost sinners before the finality of their physical death is worthy of every possible effort! At first, those who hear our witness may not appreciate the reason for our concern. However, don’t be dissuaded by their understandably lost mentality. Even the Lord’s personal efforts were frequently misunderstood. Spiritual blindness remains with the lost in every generation! For that reason, you will need to love enough to endure spiritual lostness – resistance to the light. Pray today for the privilege of turning lost sinners away from their current eternal destination. Remember that spiritual rescue is the highest form of Christian love!

 

By Billie Hanks Jr.

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