The Center of our Response

As a church, how can we genuinely and practically respond to the Gospel? When we read of the steadfast love of our Father who sent His Son to save sinners...what should our response be? When we digest the truth that we went from being objects of His wrath to adoption into His family...how can we respond? The center of our response can be found in 1 Peter 3:8.

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind." - 1 Peter 3:8, ESV

I love this verse! This morning, it about knocked me out of my quiet time chair. How can a church function with unity, love, tenderness, and humility? The Gospel. The center of our response to the Gospel is understanding our daily need for His grace and relaying that need to others. I often times fall into the trap of my own pride which allows me to think that my steps are important, my words matter, and my leadership counts. Pride can swallow us up...which will take away the response the Gospel deserves. I've seen leadership so swallowed up in pride that sin isn't recognized...and disguised by the errors of others. The center of fallen man's response is his own hopeless determination. The center of our response to His Gospel must be in the words that Peter penned for our benefit.

What is the center of your response daily to His Gospel? Do you ignore it? Do you take it for granted? Do you proclaim it? Do you live with joy? Do you forgive others? Do you own up to your own sins? Do you recognize your desperate need for His presence? May the center of our response be like 1 Peter 3:8. Even in the context of suffering as this text is located in...may in all seasons we celebrate the Gospel of our Lord.

I believe this genuine response will show the validity of our faith and our passion for His Gospel.

Soli Deo Gloria!

Dave