Half a God

May 12

(Luke 10:10-12 NIV) “But when you enter a town and are not welcomed, go into its streets and say, {11} 'Even the dust of your town that sticks to our feet we wipe off against you. Yet be sure of this: The kingdom of God is near.' {12} I tell you, it will be more bearable on that day for Sodom than for that town.”

(Mark 16:15-16 NIV) ““He said to them, "Go into all the world and preach the good news to all creation. {16} Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.””

Sometimes we forget that the gospel includes judgment. We may even despise the concept. Some see judgment as bad news, but it’s really a part of the good news. Along with Christ’s offer of healing and a place in the Kingdom of God, comes a warning: if a city will not receive the gospel, they will suffer the consequences. God offers healing and new life, but if we refuse the offer, we are in danger of destruction. Many preach the love of God, but avoid the judgment of God. They like the sound of heaven, but cannot stomach the reality of hell. They believe in a God of grace, but not a God of judgment. They worship half a God -- and a half God is not the God of Scripture. We cannot pick and choose the traits we prefer for the Lord without moving into the area of idolatry. There will be a day of judgment. We all choose heaven or hell while we live here on Earth. Make your decision! -- Friar Tuck’s Word of the Day