At that time I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish men who are complacent, those who say in their hearts, “The Lord will not do good, nor will he do ill.” (Zephaniah 1:12)
I am often amazed at the relevancy of the Bible – even an old testament minor prophet like Zephaniah. As I read this book it almost seems like he was writing for today and not to Israel 2600 years ago. Here he is talking about complacent and comfortable people. People who aren’t necessarily worshiping idols – like many in Israel were doing at that time. They aren’t drunk, criminals or prostitutes. They are probably just your average Joe good guy neighbor.
Today this would be the equivalent to someone who says they are a Christian but doesn’t necessarily make it to church every Sunday. They believe in God but aren’t sure how active God is. To them, God is basically a nice old guy and as long as you are a “good” person he’ll let you into heaven. It doesn’t matter what religion you are; as long as you are faithful to it you’ll get there. In fact, hell probably doesn’t really exist because how could a loving God create a place called hell? In Zephaniah 1:12 God says he is going to punish these people!
Don’t get lulled into an Oprah theology. Hell is real and there is a big fat road of complacency leading straight there. True we are saved by faith but a changed heart is demonstrated by the works you do. There is a fire and passion ignited in a changed heart. It isn’t enough to warm a chair in a church service now and then. Being a “good” person is not going to impress God. In and of yourself, you cannot be good enough.
I believe our generation needs new prophets speaking the words of the old. I fear there are many sitting in church every Sunday who will one day stand before the God of the universe and he will not know them. Search your heart. Is there anything more important to you than serving God? If so then you must question your salvation. God is not satisfied with half measures. He desires that none should perish but all would have eternal life. Which means he desires all of you – he is calling you to give your heart and your life to him. Serve him above all other things. There is nothing greater and nothing more satisfying and no joy more complete than a life and heart committed to Jesus. And no richer man is there than the one who is wholy owned by God the Father.
posted at rhinoseven.com
