Thursday, January 31, 2008

Not

On hearing this, Jesus said, 'It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." (Matthew 9:12-13)

"NOT" . . . what an important word. It is usually used in a negative way and rightly so. It is not a good idea to drink and drive. It is not a constructive thing to tell your boss to "shove it!" In fact, it is not a good idea to tell your wife or girlfriend, "have you put on weight, Honey?" Not a good idea. A hah! Not is used in a positive way in that instance, wouldn't you say? It will preserve your marriage or your ever hoping to have one!

Jesus uses this key word in the most positive way. The truth He applies because of the word "not" in this passage cannot be overlooked. Pay close attention to the word not in the verse from the Gospel of Matthew, chapter nine, verses twelve and thirteen. Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice.' For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners."

Those of you listening or reading this who are sure you are righteous and without sin cannot be saved. Your soul is destined for separation from God who is light, love, and peace. You are self-righteous and therefore NOT in the family of God. This is negative . . . that is worse than telling your wife or girlfriend, "have you put on weight, Honey?" . . . not good! Friend, admit it. You are a sinner who needs the Great Forgiver . . . His name is Jesus, for Jesus did NOT come for the righteous, but for you and for me. Sinners who need NOT fear separation from God's light, love, and peace . . . that is good news, NOT bad news!

Love,
Chappy

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