Devotion for July 12, 2008

False Professions

“They profess to know God, but in works they deny Him, being abominable, disobedient, and disqualified for every good work.” (Titus 1:16 NKJV)

This theme is repeated throughout Scripture. People say they believe, but their actions say otherwise. In its most poignant form Jesus said, “He who has My commandments and keeps them, it is he who loves Me. And he who loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I will love him and manifest Myself to him.” (John 14:21 NKJV)

Therefore, we see false professions are characterized by a lack of love, a lack of obedience, and a lack of fellowship. These three are tied together because the commandments deal with loving God and loving others, and without that there is no fellowship with God or brethren.

There are many reasons to profess Christ. To appease one’s own conscience, to gain influence over others, and to get the approval of others are a few. When people come into the assembly by membership with false professions, is it any wonder there are problems? Many are in your midst for selfish reasons, and as soon as their desires are threaten they will show their spots. What are we to do about it?

We are not to begin an inquisition that is for sure. In fact, we are to leave them right were they are and the angels will separate them out at the end of the age (Matt. 13:49). That doesn’t mean we can do nothing to help them and help ourselves.

We can and should practice our spiritual duties. Have your conversations about spiritual matters. Love one another through sacrifice and brotherly kindness.

If we will do these things, then those who have made a false profession will have a constant reminder that they are left wanting. It will also give testimony to our own souls that we are His children because He will manifest Himself to us (John 14:21 above).

My dear friend, do you look forward to that day when you will see Him face to face? What a day of rejoicing that day will be! What a day of rejoicing this day can be! Meditate on the things of God, and as the song says, the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.

Those who have only made a false profession can never experience this joy. Let your light so shine that they might see your good works and glorify God (Matt. 5:16). Amen?