Aug28 Written by:Nathan Williams
Thursday, August 28, 2008
Sometimes preachers are berated for being "too negative." Sometimes the criticism is warranted. Some preachers do seem to hammer on the negative side of things, leaving out many of the positive messages contained in the gospel. But sometimes the criticism comes from disgruntled listeners. All preachers who preach the complete word of God step on toes and offend consciences. Those offended may call this "negative" preaching because it makes them feel bad, and they don't like feeling bad.
Paul was forced to defend himself in 1 Cor. 1 from some who charged him with being wishy-washy. Paul made it plain he fully intended to come visit them on his way to Macedonia. He was somehow hindered. So his critics said, basically, "You can't trust Paul. You never know if he's telling you the truth or lying." Paul defended himself in 1 Cor. 1:17-20:
"Therefore, I was not vacillating when I intended to do this, was I? Or what I purpose, do I purpose according to the flesh, so that with me there will be yes, yes and no, no at the same time? But as God is faithful, our word to you is not yes and no. For the Son of God, Christ Jesus, who was preached among you by us--by me and Silvanus and Timothy--was not yes and no, but is yes in Him. For as many as are the promises of God, in Him they are yes; therefore also through Him is our Amen to the glory of God through us."
Paul's word was always "Yes." When he said he intended to come visit them, he meant it. Plans change, but his intentions did not. Then Paul went so far as to say JESUS is always "yes." And the promises of God are "yes." Christ is our "amen," our positive affirmation, our "yes."
The Gospel message is a positive message. Each of us in Christ knows he is SAFE in the arms of Jesus. He knows God ALWAYS fulfills His promises. When God said He would do something, He will do it. Unlike us, God doesn't change plans because of events that spring up and surprise Him. Whatever He promises He can and will accomplish! He is our Amen.
May you rest in His promises and share them with others today,
Nathan
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