Commissioned by Christ

John 1:6--There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.

     Every believer, no matter what church they attend or what fellowship they are a part of, have been called, charged and commissioned by Christ.  While many believers lack the knowledge of their duties, others choose to neglect them, seeming to think those duties are unnecessary and done only by the radical.  Today, I would like to encourage all true believers to consider a few areas that Christ has called us to walk in.  They are not suggestions, nor helpful tips, but commissions from God's Word.

     Reconciliation.  II Corinthians 5:18-19 says, "Now all things are of God, who has reconciled us to Himself through Jesus Christ, and has given us the ministry of reconciliation, that is, that God was in Christ reconciling the world to Himself, not imputing their trespasses to them, and has committed to us the word of reconciliation."  Just as Christ has reconciled us, forgiving us of our wrongful deeds; we also should be individuals that freely deal out mercy to others.  Forgiveness, while not always easy, is essential to the Christians' life.  Without it, death of spiritual fruit will quickly be seen.

     Light bearers.  Matthew 5:14-15 says, "You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.  Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lamp stand, and it gives light to all who are in the house."  It is amazing to me how many closet "Christians" we have today.  Those afraid, or unwilling to share God's Word with others.  The only way one might think they were believers is because their vehicle sits outside a church building on Sunday.  Shouldn't one who claims to be a Christians frequently talk about Christ?  Shouldn't His name come up in conversation(and I don't mean when your cursing)?  We need more believers to take off the basket and begin to let their light shine.

     Mistreatment.  I Peter 2:21 says, "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps" and I Peter 3:9 says, "not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing."  Just as Jesus suffered at the hands of men and did not return with anger, we are called to follow His steps.  Very often this is difficult and seems unbearable, but remember Jesus and be longsuffering.  Do not lose heart when men speak evil of you or to you, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you; but, rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven.  Matt. 5:12

     Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might(Eph. 6:10), allowing His power to enable you to be a minister of reconciliation, a light bearer for truth and a disciple who can withstand mistreatment and respond with a blessing.