Introductory Thoughts
Man does not change in order to be saved, but true salvation always brings about an evident change in the life of the new believer. Perhaps the change is less noticeable in some new believers and more noticeable in others; however, no change means no salvation. The change is not always an immediate outward change because it involves a change of the inward nature. A person who trusts Christ for salvation becomes a new creature (Galatians 6:15). It might be best to consider how this could be likened to a dog (Matthew 15:26-27) becoming a sheep (John 10:16). A new man now dwells within the new Christian to help combat and defeat the old sinful nature (Ephesians 4:22-24). Salvation is not merely the turning over of a new leaf; it is a new birth (John 3:3) where one is passed from spiritual death to spiritual life (John 5:24).
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): The Bible tells of people who changed after they met the Lord. A wicked woman became a witness (John 4:15-26, 28-29). Saul the persecutor of Christians became Paul the persecuted Christian (Acts 9:1-2; Acts 21:13). Zacchaeus became a cheerful giver (Luke 19:8).
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(For everyone): Have you been born again by the grace of God? What can you point to in your life as obvious changes that occurred since you believed on the Lord?
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Are you concerned about your salvation? Are you willing to examine yourself (2 Corinthians 13:5)? Read The First Epistle General of John. Do you find these proofs of salvation in your life?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to give you light concerning your salvation.
- Ask God to continue to change you for His glory.
Song
AMAZING GRACE!
