The Devotional

Papa J's rules for Livin #158

Is there a problem with the social conduct of mankind? All of our scissors have become dull and all of our paste has gone stale and the paper mountain of failed programs and promises lay at waste on the floor! Our cut and paste world needs revival. Psalm 85:6

Over the weekend a couple of discussions have developed about our image as disciples of Jesus Christ. Mainly that we were created in the image and likeness of God and that we should be godly people because of this image as presented to the world around us. Truly this is an important subject and do not take it lightly when I say; “So where is the makeup?” or “What mirror should I use to see this image?” Should I go to the makeup parlor in Genesis 1:27 and use the image here? Well no! This is before man's fall. Should I go to the makeup parlor found in Genesis 5:3. No again, since this is what our image is. We are all made in the image of the first Adam after he fell from grace. Temporal and tarnished sinners is what we are and all of the religious makeup available to mankind today is just a cover up! So, does the BIBLE provide and image that God is pleased with? I am so glad you asked? 1 Corinthians 15:45-49. The first Adam became a natural living being, simply put – this is what we are; “living beings”. The last Adam became a life-giving spirit, simply put – this is the image we need; “spiritual beings” Our renewed image is that of Jesus Christ. Romans 12:1-2

1 Corinthians 5

1 Corinthians 5:4-8 It is not hard for us to see the need for us to protect our natural family from sexual immorality. Well, that should be the case and while we can say such things there are many who have failed to do this and lost much. Our record as natural parents is not good and as much as we desire for things to be different, the circumstances will never go away. However, it is God who rescues the perishing and all who will call upon the LORD will be saved from a wicked and perverse generation. Acts 2:40.

So we live in a crooked or bent generation. In our families, with our friends and even in our business associations this perverted bent is ever present. When we fail or fall into this trap, it is not because the devil made us do it, it is because of our own free will of choice. This choice develops consequences that are recorded forever in time in the hearts and minds of the people we know and love. These are stumbling stones of offense for them and strongholds of evil for those who sinned.

When we take these matters to our place of worship we are introducing our selfish behavior to the whole of the congregation. If the church does not respond to this immoral conduct, all of the membership suffers the effects. The church becomes unproductive and the image of Christ who is our Passover is lost in the effort to cover up. If the church is to keep holy the Passover feast, then it must be willing to turn the matter over to God and deliver the sinner for destruction in order to save their soul for judgment and reestablish the good spiritual work of the church. Tough subject, “yes” because too many of us are victims and principles in these matters. More tomorrow.