Then after fourteen years, I went up again to Jerusalem this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. I went in response to a revelation and, meeting privately with those esteemed as leaders, I presented to them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. I wanted to be sure I was not running and had not been running my race in vain. (Galatians 2:1-2
We’ve all been frustrated trying to change a loved one because they aren’t following our rules.
Acts Chapter 15 says Christian Jews from Judea came to Antioch preaching that a man must be circumcised to be saved. The church in Antioch sent Paul and Barnabas to Jerusalem to settle the dispute. They took Titus, a Gentile, to see if the brethren in Jerusalem would require him to be circumcised. Paul wanted to ensure that the gospel message of God saving us through his grace by believing in Jesus remained simple as God intended salvation. God doesn’t want us to set laws. It’s our job to love and his to convict.
Verse 2 tells that Paul went to Jerusalem by a revelation from God, not because the church in Antioch sent him. Many of the apostles continued to follow and promote Jewish laws, and God wanted that practice to stop.
Today, Church leaders preaching that church membership, keeping the Ten Commandments, worshipping on Saturday, and water baptism are necessary for salvation is contrary to God’s plan that salvation is through his grace for those who believe in Jesus.
Don’t run your race in vain. Care for your adult loved one who is off-track (without enabling them), and pray for God to convict.
Father, I praise you that I am saved simply for believing in Jesus.. Remind me not to lecture my adult loved ones and act lovingly. Prompt me to consult you for a plan for tough love when someone strives to control me. In Jesus name, I pray, amen.
All we can do for our loved ones is pray for them to find the answers that leads to Christianity. If we lecture they might turn in a different direction. For Christianity to really mean something, we need to stop imposing rules to follow. If someone sees our happiness and our ability to function during difficult times, perhaps they will connect the happiness and ability to lead a good life with our religious beliefs.
Thanks for your comment. Very well said. I love you Sis. I’m praying for you this morning. Blessings and love, Jody
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Thank you for sharing and for your encouragement. I look forward to serving you. I prayed for your family today and hope you know how much God loves you.