The Unseen Warning: More Urgent Than Any Label
Recently, I lost a close cousin suddenly, and the only thing that kept going through my mind was I hope he had time to make it right with the Lord. Then I started to think about all the people that have passed before him and will after that may have never had the opportunity to make Jesus Christ Lord and Saviour of their lives and be free from the bondage and wages of sin.
We often navigate our faith through devotionals, Bible study, sharing our testimonies, and engaging in church life. These are vital for Christian living. We often feel the pressure to be perfect before being able to share an encouraging word or the love of Christ with others around us, articulate our beliefs, or live lives devoid of stumbles. But what if the most crucial message isn't about our perfect presentation but a fundamental truth as stark as the warning on a cigarette pack?
Think about it. That small text declares, "Smoking kills." It's direct, unambiguous, and carries serious weight. In the same vein, there's a spiritual reality we must acknowledge with equal gravity: to die without Christ as your Lord and Savior means eternity separated from God, burning in hell’s fire. There isn't a second chance.
This isn't about being the most charismatic speaker or having a spotless past. It's about the foundational relationship offered through Jesus Christ. Scripture makes this undeniably clear:
John 3:36: "Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life; whoever does not obey the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God remains on him." This verse presents a direct consequence of rejecting Christ.
Acts 4:12: "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." This emphasizes the unique and necessary role of Jesus.
Hebrews 9:27: "And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment." This highlights the finality of death regarding our earthly opportunity to have an option to choose. That if we die without knowing Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior, our souls will burn in hell forever.
This isn't intended to instill fear as the primary motivator, but to underscore the profound significance of this truth. It’s about recognizing the reality of our spiritual condition and the life-saving remedy offered.
When I was about eight years old, I saw a movie called “Burning Hell,” and that thing shook me to the core, and I knew then I did not want my life to be lived without Christ. Do not get me wrong, after being saved and baptized, I was far from perfect or even being a vessel that brought glory to God. I ran from God and Christianity so much. My life was like the prodigal son. But guess what, similar to him as well, when I returned, I was welcomed with open arms, and there was a feast for the one the Lord had left, the others in pursuit of, had returned home.
Hope and Redemption: The glorious truth is that this warning is coupled with immense hope and redemption. Through Jesus' sacrifice, we are offered forgiveness and a path back to God, regardless of our past or present imperfections.
Peace and Comfort: Understanding this brings deep peace and comfort. Our salvation isn't dependent on our flawless performance but on Christ's perfect work.
Meaning and Purpose: Accepting this truth provides ultimate meaning and purpose to our lives, grounding us in God's eternal plan.
Unconditional Love and Grace: This flows from God's unconditional love and grace, reaching out to us even when we fall short.
You don’t need to have all the answers or a perfectly curated life to grasp this essential truth. Just as you understand the stark message on a cigarette box, understand this: Christ is the definitive and only path to eternal life with God. Without him, satan awaits your company so that he is not alone.
Let me end with this, I know many will say that Christians and the Bible are just nonsense and man-made lies to manipulate and control us. My question is, what if it is not? Are you okay with gambling with your life and soul?
A Clear Call to Action:
Where do you stand with this fundamental truth? Have you personally trusted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior? If not, today is the day. Don't wait. Reach out to a trusted Christian friend or pastor, or feel free to message me. Take that first step towards eternal life.
A Practical Project: The "One Conversation" Challenge
This week, I challenge each of us to step slightly outside our comfort zone. Your project is simple: have one intentional conversation with someone (a friend, neighbor, colleague) where you gently and naturally share why your faith in Jesus Christ is important to you.
This doesn't mean you need to preach or have all the answers. It could be as simple as saying, "Something that really gives me peace is my faith in Jesus," and being open to where the conversation goes.
This isn't about being a full-time evangelist; it's about allowing the reality of God's love and the path to Him through Jesus to touch one more life. We never know who may die and how we could have impacted their life with the gospel. Let's move beyond just internal devotion and allow the life-giving truth we know to ripple outwards, one conversation at a time.
What resonates with you most about this message? How might you take on the "One Conversation" challenge this week? Share your thoughts below.
