The Church Marches On

And I also say to you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build My church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it.

— Matthew 16:18

 

Our numbers have never been greater in the church today. So-called megachurches dot our landscape across the United States and around the world. What an amazing thing when you stop and consider the fact that our faith had such humble beginnings.

When Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem due to the decree of Caesar Augustus that everyone should be taxed, who would have thought that little baby would grow into a man who would change the world—and world history—from that point forward? During His ministry, I don't think the Romans paid a lot of attention to Jesus Christ or to His claims. They tolerated Judaism and would allow it to exist as long as the Jews conformed to Roman law.

The Moment of Truth

But if you do not do so, then take note, you have sinned against the Lord; and be sure your sin will find you out.

— Numbers 32:23

 

In 1990, the band Milli Vanilli was awarded a Grammy for Best New Artist. They were quite successful in their day, selling millions of albums. But then it was revealed that they did not do the vocals on their own recordings. Some studio singers had done that. Their Grammy was returned. There came a moment when Milli Vanilli had to face the music.

And there will come a day when everyone will have to face the music as well. There are some who are putting on a good show right now as Christians. They have just about everyone convinced. They have their parents convinced. They have their husband or their wife convinced. They have all of their friends thinking they are very committed believers. But they are living a double life and are fooling them all.