Jesus came not to condemn...

Self righteous individuals can only see the faults in others. In addition they try to make others look bad so they can look good. The self righteous are always quick on the trigger to judge others. They put others on a guilt trip.

Jesus on the other hand says he came not to condemn, but that the world through him might be saved. Jesus lifts us out of condemnation. He lifts us out of oppression and depression. He redeems and saves us.

Jesus takes our condemnation and our robe of sin and gives us a white robe of righteousness. He forgives our past sins and covers us with his grace.

Now we have to live in a world where we are hated and despised. We are persecuted and harassed. Therefore we need pastors and brethren that can love and comfort us. Paul the apostle was a brilliant strategist. He cared and loved the churches he had established. The church at Thessalonica was troubled by the enemy, so Paul sent young Timothy to establish and comfort the believers there.

As believers in Christ, our faith is called into question everyday in some form or the other. Thus we need pastors that can rightly interpret and declare the word of God, so that we would be strengthened and comforted. So beloved let us love one another.

TRUE Religion

True religion is about love. Love for the homeless. Love for the troubled. Love for the poor.Love for sinners. Love for the rejected and scorned.

God is love. If we preach God...we must preach love. Churches struggling to grow most likely failed to demonstrate the love of God.

Therefore churches must reach out to the destitute, the widows, the fatherless, the rejects and even the rich that might be despised. And love them with a true love. Love them with the love of God. Love them unconditionally.

Talking love is never sufficient. Love has to be demonstrated. And there are many means by which we can pour our love out to the destitute and needy. Churches must have charitable programs, which can take the form of a pantry, soup kitchen, clothes distribution, etc. The form or method can be varied and combined.

As we look around our neighborhood and communities around our churches, we find so many families in need, with problems, etc; it boggles the mind. This opportunity can be readily ministered to by the churches.

A great truth pastors must believe and accept is that there are so many people who want to give and to help in charitable acts. People need just an opportunity to give and bless the poor. The pastors therefore should provide the opportunity for the givers whose ministry is to give.

Finally, once God's love is demonstrated, churches will grow. Membership will expand. And more and more families will be saved. So preach God's love and demonstrate it as well.