Tough Questions

Yesterday I came across a sermon by O. S. Hawkins (for the full sermon go to www.preaching.com/hawkins) that caused me to stop and think. The subject wasn't anything new, but it brought up what I believe are tough, yet important questions. These tough questions come to us from Jesus. The first tough question is Who do men say that I am? (Matthew 16:13) This is an important question, because we live in a society that is becoming more and more liberal, politically correct, and, pluralistic. Meaning that for people, there are no moral absolutes and there is no One True God. So people are answering this question "Who do men say that I am?" with whatever they choose to believe and follow. This can make it tough for the church and for Christians because we are encountering people who come from a different way of thinking. We are dealing with a society that more and more doesn't believe church attendance and church affiliation is important. Which brings us to Jesus' second tough question: "Who do you say that I am?" (Matthew 16:15) As Christians, I believe this is a question that we have to ask ourselves everyday, at the beginning of each day. I say this because each day we will encounter people and forces around us that challenge our beliefs, and challenge the way we live as Christians. Don't you find this to be true? Whether it is in the car, at work, taking the kids to school, or choosing a movie to go to, there are many forces at work challenging our faith and our witness. I believe that as a Christian, as a minister, as a leader of my church, as a part of a denomination, I need to stay firm in my answer: Jesus is my savior, the head of the body (which is the church) and the way and truth and life. I hope that every day I can answer this question with conviction, and then live it out for God's glory. Tell me what you think. God bless.