By Not Known
We are doing something strange today. In our two church services, we hope to persuade people who are presently non-Christians to become Christians, or at least to consider seriously the Christian message.
This is a remarkable goal. It is remarkable because it is unusual. Most religions in the world are identified with a particular tribe, people, culture or location. Most religions expect the loyalty of all of the people of their ‘group’ and neither expect nor seek to make converts. And most people live and die in the religion of their ‘group’
Christianity is one of the few religions that tries to make converts through outreach activities. Are we out of our mind? Why do we do this?
A clue is found in these words: If we are out of our mind, it is for the sake of God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. (2 Cor. 5: 13- 14)
Three great loves make us seek converts for Christ.
Firstly, the love of God for humanly in Christ. Christianity teaches that God makes all the right moves towards us. Before we did anything, he showed great love by sending Jesus to die for our forgiveness – the one dying for others. As we understand God’s love, it is natural to tell others about it, so that God is honoured as more and more people admire him.
Secondly, the love of Christian believers for Christ. Because Christians love Jesus, they obey his command to tell everyone the Christian message. This gives them the chance to become Christians. As well, we desire to see Jesus given the worship he deserves, as the knee of every person bends in worship to him.
Thirdly, the love of Christian believers for non-Christians. Perhaps a Christian family member for friend invited you to today’s service. And they have been praying for you. The person who invited you loves you on God’s behalf and they desire God’s best for you.
If you are not a Christian, we want you to become one. We do this from love. We will not try and force you to become a Christian, for that would be unloving to you and unworthy of God. But it is our prayer and desire that you believe in Jesus. And that is why we have these services today.