Wednesday, May 30, 2007

Bits & Pieces: Biblical Saints called Believers

"And at the hands of the apostles many signs and wonders were taking place among the people; and they were all with one accord in Solomon's portico. But none of the rest dared to associate with them; however, the people held them in high esteem. And all the more believers in the Lord, multitudes of men and women, were constantly added to their number," (Acts 5:12--14).

* With the divine discipline of Ananias and Sapphira, public perspective on the costliness of Christianity changed. Belief in the Savior was taken much more seriously, and those who were believers were viewed with awe. Oh, that believers' convictions and life-styles today were such that the unbelieving world would be awed by our God!

* Following the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira, the contrast between believers and unbelievers was sharpened. There was a greater sense of putting one's life on the line in being identified as a believer in Jesus Christ. In the light of biblical prophecy, believers today also need to settle the issue of identification with our Lord and Savior.

* After the deaths of Ananias and Sapphira, people took Christianity more seriously. There was a heightened awareness of what it could cost to believe in the Lord Jesus for salvation. The unflinching convictions of those early Christians, as well as their personal holiness, impressed and attracted a watching world. Is it so with us?

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