THE WRONG MESSAGE!

THE WRONG MESSAGE!

Acts 24:25

25 And as he [Paul, the prisoner] reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come Felix trembled, and answered, Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.

           Author, Ray Comfort, asks “Why do 9 out of 10 children raised in Christian homes leave the Church? Why do many professing Christians show little or no evidence for their faith? Why do 80-90% of those making decisions for Christ fall away from the faith? The reason seems to be that the modern church is preaching the wrong message. The soft-sell gospel is “God has a wonderful plan for your life!” Who could refuse this offer?

           This offer limits the gospel to those who are dissatisfied with their life. It appeals to the poor, the sick, and the socially disenfranchised but totally shuts out the rich, the healthy, and the socially satisfied. The real gospel is for “whosoever.”

           Felix did not need God’s wonderful plan because he was a rich ruler. Yet Paul’s approach was a genuine approach. First, Paul reasoned of “righteousness.” Paul presented the truth that Felix was a breaker of God’s laws. I’m sure he said something like “there is none righteous. Not even you.” (Romans 3:10)

           Next, Paul challenged Felix’s lack of temperance and self control. The rich and well placed are often driven to excess by their privilege and, like spoiled brats, do not like their comforts disturbed.

           Finally, Paul reasoned of “judgment to come.” It was a compelling argument. There would come a day when Felix would meet the Lawgiver as a lawbreaker. He would be found guilty and sentenced to hell. Felix trembled at that thought but postponed his most important decision. The scripture never records that he ever found a more convenient time!

Dear Lord, let me be bold enough to disturb the comfortable and tender enough to comfort the disturbed. AMEN