WEDNESDAY 27 July, 2016
A Man and His Message
Then the watchman saw another man running, and the watchman called to the gatekeeper and said, “There is another man, running alone!” And the king said, “He also brings news.” So the watchman said, “I think the running of the first is like the running of Ahimaaz the son of Zadok.” And the king said, “He is a good man, and comes with good news.” - 2 Samuel 18:26-27
David recognized Ahimaaz was a trustworthy young man, he had previously sent word from Hushai (2 Samuel 17:17). Although a good man, when he arrived at his destination, he really had nothing to say.
A man of God must have a message. There are many men in the Bible who had a message from the Lord to tell the people. John the Baptist boldly proclaimed his God given message: In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” (Matthew 3:1-2).
Peter, in his sermon, fully explained to the men of Israel concerning the coming of the Holy Spirit on the Day of Pentecost. He further expounded the Scriptures concerning Jesus of Nazareth’s death and resurrection––by the determined purpose and foreknowledge of God… whom they unjustly crucified(Acts 2:1-36). In response they asked him, “What should we do?” Peter’s message to these men was very similar to John’s:
…“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:38).
Jesus’ message to the people was no different, he preached: …“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand”(Matthew 4:17). Over the centuries the message of the Gospel has never changed. Have you repented of your sins while you have the opportunity?
There's no repentance in the grave.
~Isaac Watts~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit Somebodylovesyouradio.org!