An Unshakable Future - Part 2 of 2

Barnsley 2023

There was a well known ad campaign back in the 90’s by American Express - Membership has its Privileges. It was one of those catchy slogans that has stayed around for a long time. I’m going to borrow it for this blog.

Regarding our theme of an unshakable future, membership does have its privileges as a citizen of the Kingdom of God. Since we are saved, we know that we will go to heaven when our time on this earth ends. But, citizenship in God’s kingdom has many benefits that we get to enjoy now - the forgiveness of our sins, Christian community, our Helper (Holy Spirit) and wisdom from God. We are also promised that we cannot be separated from God’s unconditional love.

Hebrews 12:28-29 Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe: for our God is a consuming fire.

For these blessings, this passage from Hebrews tells us that we should live in continuous “gratitude” for this incredible gift. It also tells us that we should also offer to God “acceptable worship with reverence and awe.” So, is a life of gratitude and acceptable worship a requirement for salvation? No, it’s the evidence of salvation.

Do our lives reflect a grateful and worshipful heart? We might be uncertain as to exactly what that is supposed to look like for each of us. However, it is something that we recognize in others. We know it when we see it. Do others see it in us? Membership has its privileges but membership also has its responsibilities. Live gratefully - worship deeply.

Stay hungry,

Big E

Matt. 5:6