III. How Do We Live As Good Citizens?
How can we be sure we live as citizens of heaven? Let me suggest two things.
First, get closer to those who stand out as citizens of heaven. Remember how Paul phrased it? "Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you." We are urged to take note of those who live according the pattern set down by the gospel. When you find people who follow that pattern in their lives, stick with them! Get closer to those who stand out as citizens of heaven. Fellowship with them. Develop a friendship network with them.
Of course, these friends are not to be the exclusive group with whom you spend your time. You must develop friendship with non-believers so that they hear the gospel from you and see it in your life. This friendship network serves as a support group for you as you seek to live your heavenly citizenship in this life.
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Second, remember your motivation for living your heavenly citizenship in this life. Constantly remember what is at stake: everlasting life! A citizen of heaven always remembers what is at stake for his life and for others. If we forget what's at stake, complacency replaces faith. If we forget that those who do not hear and receive the gospel are forever lost, we lose our passion to live our citizenship.
Remember these two things. Get closer to those who stand out as citizens of heaven. Keep the motivation alive! (Tim McQuade)
March 18, 2001
Third Sunday in Lent
Come Home!
Isaiah 55:1-9
"I sat awestruck by the magnificence of the symphony", he said. Tears were in his eyes. All who heard his expressions knew he had been greatly moved. It seemed that his very soul had been touched by this spiritual event. He would never forget how his thoughts and feelings raced through his soul. Every time his mind turned to the experience, it was as though a bit of heaven touched him. He wanted to shout "bravo!" even as he drove along in his car alone. Never again, he thought to himself, will I be so inspired. Surely no one could improve upon Ludwig van Beethoven's artistry!
As the story goes some years later, he happened across a passage in the Hebrew Scriptures that he never knew was there. He wept and came to terms with Jesus Christ. Strange the passage didn't even mention Him by name but that didn't matter. "Wow!" it was even better than Beethoven's genius. Of course, I mean the gracious invitation to God's mercy found in Isaiah 55:1-9
I. "Come and have a right relationship with me" (vv. 1-2)
If we are thirsty for spiritual drink, it is available. The waters that will quench our thirst are in great supply. There is no need to languish with a parched mouth and throat. Our God says He never intended for things to be that way. His waters are pure and powerful. They are health-giving and healing. They are beyond the human beings ability to create or copy. Oh, and there is more too!
Precious people, you don't need money. Put away those new bills. Close your checkbook. Forget about your Visa card. There is no bartering to be done. It's free! Even as many times as some of us have heard this, often it is hard for us to believe. Money just won't provide for you what you must have in order for salvation to come to your house.