From a Distance

The old church building sat perched atop a hill on the outskirts of town. From a distance, it looked like any of a number of Christian tabernacles, a hall for the faithful to gather. But, drawing closer to the structure, it became evident that the walls were broken, the paint was faded and peeling, windows were boarded up and weeds grew where there was once a gravel parking lot. The old building was dead.

I fear that there are those who claim to belong to Christ who are much like that old church building. From a distance, they seem to share the same faith as illuminated in the Word of God. From a distance, they appear to have been baptized, occasionally attend a church gathering, have a moral code that keeps them from too many outlandish sins and a host of other expressions--from a distance.

But draw closer to them and what do you see? Is there a love for God that dominates heart, soul, mind and strength (Mark 12:30). Is there a love for others that is sacrificial (1 John 3:16). Is there an active faith (James 2:18). Is there a desire for real forgiveness of sins and a delight in the opportunity to forgive others (Matthew 6:14-15). Is there a willingness to face the backlash of a public faith (Luke 21:17).

Jesus warned the Pharisees of their impending doom. He told them, "...you are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones" (Matthew 23:27). Isn't it time that this reality be dealt with? From a distance, there are many who look the part. But draw closer, examine more fully, and you might discover something entirely different.

Paul tells us what to do in 2 Corinthians 13:5. "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith. Test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you--unless, of course, you fail the test?" And, ultimately, the question is not whether someone else is in the faith - but whether YOU are in the faith. An outward, religious life, no matter how good it might appear, will not prove enough in the end. Are you really willing to risk your eternal life, hoping that you look good enough on the outside? Don't be a Christian only from a distance.