" Simple Instructions ! "

 

1st.Corinthians 2:1-2  "And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of GOD. For I determined not to know anything among you save JESUS CHRIST, and HIM crucified."

     Have you ever noticed that, in trying to make things easier, the instructions for new appliances or electronic gadgets have actually, at times, been made more difficult ? Is it just me who has trouble discerning what the "simple" drawings are trying to tell me concerning how to set up and use the particular item I have purchased ? Do you find yourself scratching your head as you read and reread the written instructions that were obviously prepared by someone for whom English was a second language ? When it comes to the Gospel message, you will never have that problem !

     In today's text, the Apostle Paul reminded the believers at Corinth that the message he had preached to them was a simple communication, "not with excellency of speech or of wisdom." However, he warned them that the Gospel of "CHRIST crucified" was a "stumblingblock" to the Jews and "foolishness" to the Gentiles (1st.Corinthians 1:23 pictured above). Yet, in this matter, the problem was not with the instructions. They were straightforward: CHRIST paid the penalty for the sins of mankind on the cross, HE died, HE was buried in a tomb, and HE rose triumphantly from the grave - the CONQUEROR over death and sin; now, just follow the directions: Believe on the LORD JESUS CHRIST, and thou shalt be saved" (Acts 16:31). The information is clear and precise. The words are not tangled and difficult to understand. CHRIST died for you - HE died as your substitute in your place; HE bore your sins upon HIMSELF; HE took your rightful place on that cross. Just believe and receive what HE has done on your behalf (See picture below). The message is clear that " whosoever believes in HIM should not perish, but have everlasting life" (John 3:16). JED

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

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