“For it is time for judgment to begin at the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?” (1 Peter 4:17 ESV)
You may say, “Peter wrote that letter a long time ago. It doesn’t pertain to this day and age.”
Wrong. It has everything to do with the church of the twenty first century.
Especially today’s church.
“God judging His church? Really?”
He did it in the Book of Revelation, didn’t He?
But consider this: if you and I will judge ourselves, we won’t need to be judged by the Lord.
Here’s a word I believe is from the Lord. It’s the same word He placed in my heart a few months ago, a word I’ve preached, taught, and have written a book about.
In essence, here’s what I hear Him say:
Because the day is so late, and nighttime will soon settle upon this last days generation, it is time for My people to examine their lives.
Do you find yourself struggling with lust, pride, greed, or other things that wars against faith and confidence in Me?
Have you grown to love the world and all it has to offer?
Are you ashamed of Me?
Arm yourselves with the mind of Christ. Take My words and let them be your sole support, confidence, and life.
As I have said, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God’, so I have instructed you to build your life upon everything, and only, what I tell you.
The mind of Christ will be your wisdom, your sanctification, your confidence and courage. It will keep you from sin, and give you the ability to help others become free as well.
Your flesh will rebel, screaming bloody murder. But those who ignore the temper tantrums of their flesh will find new strength and fresh grace in these final days.
Judgment always begins with My people, for I want only the best for them. And as they partake of My best, they will have something to give away.
It is time for My people to be as the Apostle Peter, as he spoke to the lame man in Acts, chapter three: “It’s not our money you so desperately need. You need that which Jesus Christ has given us.”
So arm yourselves, be ready when either temptation or opportunity comes knocking. Arm yourselves with the mind of Christ. For those who do will find victory and joy in serving Me.
Brethren, I believe the time is short. We have just enough time left to do God’s will.
Nothing extra.
Let’s make certain we’re prepared to finish well.
Those who are armed well will finish well.
If you would be interested in finding out how to “Arm Yourselves”, you can either go to Amazon.com or click this link:
http://jangrace.org/our-books/
Click on the picture of the book and it will take you to Amazon. Available in both paperback and eBook editions.
“Since therefore Christ suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves with the same way of thinking, for whoever has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin.” (1 Peter 4:1 ESV)
Jan Grace 