 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Article Archive |
2008
“Living Stones” Fit for Eternity
by Jim Morris
God is building a living temple with better construction materials than stones and mortar. He is using “living stones” fit for eternity. Peter said to Christ's disciples, “As you come to him, the Living Stone—rejected by men but chosen by God and precious to him—you also, like Living Stones, are being built into a spiritual house to be a holy priesthood, offering spiritual sacrifices acceptable to God through Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 2:4-5).
Peter had once confessed that Jesus was the Christ, the son of God. Jesus then replied, “And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). Before he ascended to heaven, Jesus commanded, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (28:19-20).
Jesus' disciples now participate with Him in building up His Temple—the church of the living God. Paul points out, “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building. By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. . . . Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple” (1 Corinthians 3:10-16).
May we build up the temple using the best materials—true disciples! Here is how you will recognize them. All others are impostors!
First, we can know who Jesus’ disciples are by the way they live in His WORD. Jesus said, “If you abide (remain) in My word, then you are truly disciples of Mine; and you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:31-32). True disciples can give you a Bible answer for the important questions in life.
Second, we can know who Jesus’ disciples are by the way they LOVE one another. Jesus said, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples; if you have love for one another” (John 13:34-35). True disciples will do what ever it takes to bless your life.
Finally, we can know who Jesus’ disciples are by the way they bear righteous FRUIT in their lives. Jesus said, “By this is my Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples” (John 15:8). True disciples are always growing in God's grace and knowledge.
May we become Living Stones filled with God's Word, Love and Fruit!
01-16-08
# 3
