“Self-Submission” Requires a Mature Chirstian Faith

A Word of Truth #034  

“Whoever has no rule over his own spirit is like a city broken down without walls” (Proverbs 25:28).

King Solomon who wrote these words was a powerful and wealthy king. He could give a command and fulfill his every desire. God also gave Solomon wisdom, and with that wisdom Solomon knew that satisfying his spirit and his self-will was not the wise choice.

Anger, selfishness, or any other self-directed emotion or attitude that comes from within is coming from sin. Denying our sinful flesh the gratification it desires, and instead seeking what is best for others and directing our attention to Christ is a fruit of faith, and is evidence of a growing, maturing faith.

Like an unruly child who demands his own way and will not share or compromise, so too we by nature seek to serve only ourselves. As faith matures by the grace and working of God, we are better able to see the example of our Savior, deny ourselves, and take up our cross and follow Him (cf. Matthew 16:24).

The Calling of Every Christian is to Preach the Gospel

A Word of Truth #035  

If you were to ask a dozen students at Minnesota State University for their majors, you might get twelve different answers. There are many different career areas through which individuals can use their gifts and contribute to society.

God calls Christians into different career areas, all of which can serve to glorify His name and bring blessing to others. There is one principal activity, however, to which every Christian is called. Jesus tells His followers, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15).

Everyone needs to know that in view of their sins they are by nature under God’s wrath, but that in Jesus they have been reconciled to God through His death. Sharing this gospel message of forgiveness and salvation by God’s grace through faith in Jesus is the principal calling of every Christian.