Embracing Humility: The Path to Authentic Faith in the 21st Century (03/11/'24) -Statement

Embracing Humility: The Path to Authentic Faith in the 21st Century In the contemporary era, the focus of Christianity must pivot towards addressing corruption rather than solely emphasizing missionary work. This shift recognizes a profound truth: self-deception, especially under the guise of Christ's name for misleading others, signifies a moral and spiritual demise. As the Apostle Paul warns, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows" (Galatians 6:7). This underscores the inevitability of spiritual consequences aligned with one's actions, emphasizing the importance of integrity and truthfulness in one's faith journey. The Gospel of Jesus Christ is a revelation of God's will for humanity, a path that demands unwavering adherence. Venturing away from this divine guidance only leads to a diminished understanding of life's essence and an increased susceptibility to delusion. The Gospel's inherent power lies not in aggression or coercion but in its humble and gentle approach, mirroring the vulnerability of a newborn. It's in this vulnerability that the Gospel's true strength and potential for growth reside. However, a Gospel that strays from this posture of humility and dependence, akin to that of a child, risks stagnation and premature obsolescence. Jesus Himself underscored the necessity of such childlike humility for entering the Kingdom of Heaven: "Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 18:3-4). This sentiment is echoed in Mark 10:15 and Luke 18:17, where the value of a receptive, humble heart, free from the corruption of cynicism and pride, is highlighted as essential for comprehending and embodying the Gospel. Therefore, confronting and overcoming corruption within ourselves and our communities becomes a crucial endeavor for Christians in the 21st century. This challenge calls for a return to the simplicity and purity of faith exemplified by children, a faith untainted by deceit or manipulation. Only through such transformation can the true essence and power of the Gospel be realized and manifested in our world today. Pastor Steven G. Lee (March 11, 2024)