Scripture Post #148: *RECEIVE AS CHRIST*

Romans 15:7: "Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God."


Note: This Scripture was from Paul, a servant & Apostle of Christ, to all that were in Rome (Rom. 1:1 & 7).

"…Receive ye one another, as Christ…" Wow! 

Sometimes, I lose patience with people: I expect certain people to do things the way I would do them, because I've seen the light. For example: I have a good understanding of secular music. I know that the artists who sing or rap on the albums in the secular, music industry have their records placed in a special room and incantations are played into the music to cause the listeners to behave in accordance to the lyrics of the song. I know that demons can be played into people through music; just like they can be played out of people through music. David played an evil spirit out of Saul with a harp: 1st Samuel 16:23: "And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him." I know that the intent of the artist is released into the listener. Because David played an instrumental to cast the evil spirit out of Saul (he didn't sing or say anything). And David was a man after God's own heart. So because of David's heart and intent, the evil spirit departed. Well, it works the same way with evil-hearted people, who hate God and sing about sin. Their intent travels into you if you listen to their music. I know other things about the secular music industry, but I'ma stop here because I think I've stated enough to make my point. My point is: I sometimes lose patience with people (who are saved) because they still do things (like listen to secular music) that I've learned is wrong and sinful. But then I'm reminded that I'VE LISTENED TO IT AS WELL, before I knew it was wrong! So I can't be so hard on folks. I have to have balance and understanding. So what does all of this hafta do with Rom. 15:7? 

The answer: Christ has received me. He has changed me. He has redeemed me. He didn't go, "Oh, Kurtis, you listen to secular music? There's no hope for you!" No. He received and changed me. And now I don't listen to it anymore. So I must receive others the same way (receive them as Christ received me). I should give them the truth behind what sin in their lives God wants them free of; and pray that God changes them the same way He changed me! Jesus didn't look upon the woman caught in adultery with an evil eye. He received her and told her to change. He said, "Sin no more." (John 8:3-11.)


We are to receive one another as Christ received us: "…Receive ye one another, as Christ also received us…" How did Christ receive us? "…To the glory of God."


Published: Thursday 2 • 7 • 13