07/29/2021
Today I want to continue a few thoughts from my last post on the Greek word "Aletheia" which translates out as truth in our Bibles. The Greek translation says it means ultimate or absolute reality.
I find it profound when I read the accounts of Pontius Pilate in the Gospel accounts. He was a Roman official, a governor sent of Rome to keep order under the Roman government. History accounts him as a brutal man, given over to the gods of Rome and fully pledged to Caesar. When we read the account of his dealing with the high priest and Jesus, we can see that God tries to spare him of what is coming in his life by sentencing Jesus to death (Mark 18 ,Mathew 27 ,Luke 23, John18-19).
He questions Jesus in the account of John and asks what is truth, (the ultimate/absolute reality). Jesus tells him that He himself is truth, and that His kingdom is not of this world. That's really a profound question coming from a man of his background, religious beliefs and pride in himself, and his government. Romans considered themselves as the best on the planet in every area of life. We know that Pilate had heard of the miracles before Jesus stood before him. When Jesus stood before Pilate, he stated he could not find fault. On the judgement bench (Mathew27:19) his wife sends a message that she had a dream, and urges him to step away from the whole situation. The mercy of God is shown right there.
This fact is amazing and reveals God's love and mercy. He warned Pilate thru his wife in a dream. We can tell from the accounts that he was a man swayed by pressure of his career thru men, more than the warning of God. It's amazing that Pilate stood face to face with his creator and chose the wrong path.
Another example is Cain. Genesis 4: 6-7 God approaches Cain and knew his heart and said.... spoke to him.... and said... "Sin is crouching at your door; but you can master it." As we read on we find Cain had no change of heart and slew Abel. God's mercy was there when He spoke to Cain to persuade Him that he should not do this. God always knows the outcome. Genesis 4:10-16 tells us of the terrible outcome for his choice.
Another example is Nebuchadnezzar. Daniel 4 tells of a dream that is a warning about his actions and pride. He does not repent of his ways and the inevitable befalls him. He becomes out of his mind and eats grass like an animal. Seven years went by and then once he came back to his senses; he finally acknowledges the Lord. The scriptures shows he repented. Do you see the mercy of God for those who are hard to reach?
I want to encourage you to never give up on praying and believing God for a persons life with Christ. Never stop doing what God tells you to do... whether planting the word, watering the word or reaping the harvest of their life for Christ. Sometimes God asks for hard tasks from us; but he is wanting to show His mercy and love thru us. We can do all things thru Christ who strengthens us. Philippians 4:13
I have had hard people to witness to in my life and I held my course till I was released. While there is breath of life there is hope. I do my part till I have accomplished my part in ones life before God.
My Dad was one of those people. After I received Christ, I would try to talk with Dad about giving his life to Christ. He was an alcoholic and did not want to hear it from me. I have retired many Bibles after speaking to my Dad. He would take my Bible and throw it against the wall. I would watch as it slid to a stop on the floor. My mother would love on him as well and tell about Jesus's love. My Dad finally received Jesus, and prayed with a Baptist pastor on his death bed; before I came to see him. The joy of doing my part had paid off. Glory to God!
Another man I had in my life had been a mercenary. This man had grown up in church and his Dad was a pastor. He had lived a life of a man who took up whatever side would pay him for profit in conflicts. He had done many wrong things. He felt very guilty. He was very sick. I would go and tell him about the forgiveness of God and receiving Jesus as his savior. Again as before....... here came the bad language, and my Bible was thrown at the wall. As before, I watched it slide down to the floor. That Bible became my loose leaf version. I stayed with this man until he died. I did not get to witness his repentance and acceptance of Jesus; but I know I did my part. I was faithful. I can say that when I heard he passed away; I had a supernatural peace that only God could give. I do expect to see him in heaven.
Every person will make an accountable decision before God. We make it on our own. No one else makes it for us and God only has children.... not grandchildren.
So I want to encourage you... like Paul..... who walked his course and finished his race...... We must also.
Hold to the word of God... stay faithful to Christ ..... and never quit believing, praying, witnessing of Christ (the absolute/ultimate reality... TRUTH), and showing the love of God. Mathew 28:18-20
Never give up! It is the good "fight of Faith" II Timothy 4:7
Humbly yours,
Pastor Robert