“But to all who did receive Him, He gave the right to be children of God, to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of natural descent, or the will of the flesh, or the will of man, but of God.” John 1:12-13
How does someone come to Christ? Jesus said, “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him.” John 6:44
That “draw” of God can come in many forms. For Moses it came in the form of a burning bush. For David the power to protect his flock. For Peter an amazing catch of fish. For Matthew a call for a better life. For Saul a dramatic encounter with Christ Jesus on the road to Damascus.
Each of these examples illustrates what is essential in coming to Christ – a personal encounter with God. As seen above this may come in a variety of ways. It may be as simple as a still small voice. Maybe a realized answer to prayer. Or a revelation through scripture. A key point in a sermon. Or the words of wisdom from another believer. In every case though the key that opens the door is a receptive heart and mind. To all who did receive Him, He gave the right to be children of God. God initiates the draw; we simply need to accept the gift of Christ.
It’s that personal experience, the divine encounter that leads to us believing faith. An experience that moves us from a head knowledge to a deep trust in the living God.
This coming to Christ is not something we can accomplish on our own. It is exclusively the gift of God, proof of His everlasting love. “God proves His own love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8
This personal experience with God in Christ has such a profound effect on our hearts and minds, it is like a rebirth. Jesus called it being born again. “Truly I tell you, unless someone is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3
This rebirth comes not from natural descent (ethnic descent), or of the will of the flesh (our own choosing), or the will of man (by another’s choosing) but of God (a genuine personal encounter).
Jesus affirmed this truth in Peter when he gave testimony: “You are the Messiah, the “Son of the Living God.” Jesus responded, “Blessed are you, Simon son of Jonah, because flesh and blood did not reveal this to you, but by My Father in heaven.” Matthew 16:16-17
The draw of God is real and personal. Watch for God!
Blessed by you…. Bro. Sherman
Leave a Reply