For Lord’s Day, September 29, 2013
Dear Saints,
This Lord’s Day evening, we will further consider what is forbidden in the 6th Commandment, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13). We will focus on this clause of the answer for Westminster Larger Catechism 136: ” … the neglecting or withdrawing the lawful and necessary means of preservation of life”.
Our featured Scripture will be Matthew 25:31-46, where Jesus talks about coming back to judge the world as He separates the sheep from the goats. The sheep go to heaven, the goats go to hell, and both destinations are related to their contrasted relationships with Him as evidenced in how they met the basic life needs of the least of His brethren (vs. 40). I was reminded of this dramatic interpretation of the text by the incredible Christian songwriter and pianist, Keith Green (now with the Lord). I encourage you to watch the linked YouTube clip. It’s powerful.
What made me remember this live performance (I have the album) is what Mr. Green said at the end of it: “The only difference between these two groups of people, according to these Scriptures, is what they did and didn’t do.”
Jesus said that as much as you do, or do not do, to the least of His people, so you do or do not do directly unto Him. Paul knew first hand the truth of killing Christians being synonymous with crucifying the Body of Christ (Acts 9:4-5). Jesus says in Matthew that neglect and withdrawal from taking care of His people is just as serious to Him.
Beloved, what are you doing to Jesus right now? The answer is in how you treat His Church.
Semper Reformanda,
Pastor Grant
Categories: Gratitude | Judgment Day | Work