Pastor Bell's Words To Live By

Peter reminds his hearers in 11Peter 2 that he had seen it and done it all before. He remembers vividly when the disciples were empowered by the Holy Spirit and when moved by the Spirit he spoke to Jews from the Diaspora who came to faith in their droves (Acts 2:14). He was also aware that there are those who, having come to faith, set their hearts on things rather than on the expansion of God’s kingdom. In particular there was a couple who were part of the prayer meeting when the place where they met shook whilst they were praying (Acts 4:31). They had bought into the vision of the church to contribute to its development by making a sacrificial donation. They sold a piece of land that they had and decided to give the money as a donation to the church.  However, when the transaction was complete they changed their mind and decided that they would keep some of it back, probably to go on the luxury holiday they had always wanted to go on, probably! They then brought the difference to Peter and the rest of the apostles. But Peter spoke out against this deception and rebuked them. Firstly the man had a heart attack and died immediately followed by his wife three hours later (Acts 5:1-10).  

doulbe agents are always in trouble

When Peter is speaking about those who taste of the goodness of the Lord and withdraw their hands, he knows exactly what the consequences are likely to be. So the language he uses is to encourage those who have made a commitment to follow Jesus. For me his is clearly saying: Don’t turn back. If you make a mistake, repent so that you are not cast into outer darkness. Do not be bold and wilful! Do not slander those who are following Christ! Don’t be in an unholy relationship and justify it!  God is a forgiving God, but there is a point in time when He will draw the line and everything will come to an end. 

So today Peter would say to us. If you make commitment, follow it through. If you belong to a fellowship, this is where your tithe (10% of your earned income) belongs. If you love God, love his children also. Read Acts chapters 2.3 &4 and ask God for wisdom in all your dealings.