Grace and truth

Well, heard a guy from Fuller Seminary, Doug McConnell, speak at my church on Sunday about grace and truth. Reminded me that telling the truth is very important - and also much neglected as people tell a 'happy come to Jesus gospel' rather than the true gospel. Also reminded me that we have to flavour the truth with grace, and treat people graciously, love them, and so on. Just as the Lord showed grace to us, we should show grace to others.

But, but but........ do not compromise the truth in an effort to be loving, gracious and caring - for as Romans 1:16 says 'For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone who believes, first to the Jew, and also to the Greek'

Note quickly - it is the gospel. The whole gospel. Do not omit sin, personal responsibility for sin, the need for people to be convicted by the Holy Spirit of sin, and the need to repent. Turning to Jesus for a better life, or promises of other stuff - no no no..... that is not the gospel. That sort of gospel produces false conversions.

Please proclaim it truthfully, lovingly, graciously and see the Lord transform lives

OK - all I have time for right now. Hope this is some sort of encouragement to you

Mark