Has God Breathed True Godliness into Your Heart?

© 2017 by Tom Boynton (editing by Kathy Boynton)

The Apostle Paul wrote to Timothy warning that, “in the last days perilous times shall come.”  These times will be dominated by evil men. (2 Timothy 3:1‑9)

“For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;  Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” (2 Timothy 3:2‑5)

Did you notice the insidious fact that, in all their wickedness, these evil men still try to appear “godly?”  However, even though their counterfeit “godliness” may impress men, it will be devoid of God’s power.  Paul warns Timothy to turn away from such wicked men.

I once had a boss who often said, “Appearance is everything.”  Do you or any of your acquaintances demonstrate more interest in presenting a good appearance than in possessing God’s Holiness?    Just remember, God says,

“…the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

Today, false preachers crave large followings.  They attract these large followings by rejecting inconvenient portions of God’s Word, the Bible.  Instead, they substitute flattering, “feel-good” platitudes which are less offensive.  They bolster their appeal by promising God’s earthly blessings to all who support them.

Scripture declares God’s wrath upon all such wickedness.

“For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness;” (Romans 1:18)

Only redemption by God the Son can stay His wrath.  He offered His pure life in a bloody sacrifice.  He died and rose again to pay the sin-penalty for His people.  He offers the following invitation.

“All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.” (John 6:37)

Only those who repent and ask Christ to forgive their sins will have eternal life.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” (John 3:36)

Do you have Christ’s true Godliness, or only a counterfeit substitute?

.

You may leave comments for Tom & Kathy (website administrators) below.