His Word gets it right every time.
The term "Christian" began as a derogatory term to make fun of those who followed Jesus. "Follow me" required a different response from different believers in response to their new faith. That has always fascinated me.
Some could share the Good News through their work, community service, the kitchen table, and business deals. Others were told they had to walk away from the wealth and power to follow. Different message? No, different humans.
In His pack of disciples some would be the ones to carry the message of the cross and the resurrection to the world. Others remained in their homes showing love and hospitality to the hurting and the lost. All were called to "go and make disciples. Some went to Malta. Others found their mission field at the village well when gathering fresh water.
Some of the ones who walked closely with Jesus would pen the recollections of their days and experiences with Jesus. Others would record the first Acts of the Holy Spirit after Pentecost. Peter, John, and Paul and others wrote letters to the new churches. Much of the world saw it as a movement. Others realized it was the Old Testament revealing promises kept in the coming of Jesus.
Through an imperfect human (as we all are), King James helped put what we know as "The Bible" into print for the "common" person to have access in the language of that day. Thank goodness for more modern translations and Blueletterbible.org (giving us modern day access to "Strong's Concordance") so we can read Scripture with ease.
We can compare translations in a click to look for clues, accuracy and understanding. We can dig into the Hebrew and Greek words as hunger for understanding grows. We can trust that even without fancy tools and multiple translations, God uses His Word to reveal himself to those who seek him. The fancy tools are fun, but His Word is the source.
We were given a brain capable of critical thinking and seeking truth. We were given the gift of free will to make choices.
All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work. 2 Timothy 3:16-17
The term "Christian" is still used. It is used as a self-proclamation for some, while others continue to use it in derogatory ways. Some claim His name like an invisible shield, but never pick up His Word or seek His truth. Others die courageously knowing little more than a sincere offering of the sinner's prayer and a few scriptures... with peace... because he is Lord.
We have spent several weeks in Jude. Our pastor noted that there are many books written on this tiny little letter that falls right before Revelation. It is a good idea to pay attention. We do not want to neglect the gift of His Word. If Jude falls before Revelation, we do not want to neglect the warnings.
Today, I am grateful for the inspired Word.
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