Not Just Stories

Have you ever felt as if you knew someone based solely on what you have heard without ever meeting them? I have. Such can be problematic due to the error that comes with human communication. Ultimately, the best thing would be for us to get to know someone ourselves. The same was true back in the day of Jesus. Many people had heard about Him by word of mouth. Yet, those that came to know Him for themselves were the ones whose lives were truly changed.

Yes, they heard of the miracles He had performed. Yes, they heard of His teachings. As a result, some were intrigued and wanted to learn more about Him. Likewise, others used the stories they heard to persecute Him. Today, we see the same thing happening in the world around us. Some still doubt Him simply because they believe in only what they see. In John 20:29, Jesus tells the disciples, “Because you have seen me, you have believed. Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe.” Why? Because it is only by faith that we can receive the gift of salvation and come to know Him as the only, true Savior. These stories should increase our faith in Him and be powerful tools to share the gospel with others. The beauty of His story is that it does not change. Its power does not diminish or take away from who He is. His story reaches its fullest potential when we make it ours and lead lives that lift Him and draw others to Him.

John 12: 32 KJV  And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.

Yes, we have heard of Him healing the sick and raising the dead. Has He been a healer to you? If so, you know Him in an even more personal way that has made Him real to you. That is the power of the gospel. It IS NOT just stories. Romans 1:16 tells us that “it is the power of God unto salvation for all those who believe”.

Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

Therefore, we SHALL NOT be ashamed to share it with as many people as possible. Do not sit down on His word and what He has done for you! Let it come alive in our life so it may come to life for someone else.