Sad and sobering trends in the land that are crowding out Christ and God, plus demoralizing, and undisciplined domestic problems and patterns, to disastrous and destructive drug and drinking addictions—all in daily doses of carnal conduct that erupt in tears, trials, and terror—make it imperative that God’s people and general public seek a new focus in this New Year. Let it be done in three dimensions.
1.The New Covenant commands and concerns must capture our consciousness. Our primary concern should not be about illegal or even evil-minded immigrants in the land, or how to vote as it relates to 10+ Republicans or some 3 Democratic Presidential hopefuls, or if the 10 Commandments (Old Covenant) should be placed on our Capitol grounds—all of which are sobering subjects—BUT our primary concern should be on what does King Jesus direct to be done—individually and collectively!! We better be serious and take heed “how we hear” (Lk. 8:18) Him who is king of kings and Lord of lords (Rev. 19:11-16). When near 50% of the Lord’s people do not even attend Bible Classes, and some who do are averse to Bible tests or homework, we need to renew our insight and interest as to what it means to abide in the teaching of Christ (II John vs. 9; John 8:31f; II Tim. 2:24; Heb. 5:11-14). His New Covenant, which must be known and lived, is not just current, but eternal in nature (Heb. 13:20f).
2.The New Birth needs to be clarified in the minds of men (John 3:3-5). Too many are not going to “see” (vs.3) or “enter” (v.5) the Kingdom of God being cleansed from their sins, in a “faith only” (cf. James 2:24), “say the sinner’s prayer” atmosphere (note Heb. 5:8f; Matt. 28:18-20). “The Spirit” has given the Word (II Pet. 1:20f; Eph. 3:3-5) to beget faith in Christ (Rom. 10:17), that leads one to “water” (baptism– Mk. 16:15f; Gal. 3:26f), by which one is saved by Christ (I John 4:14) from sin, to get into His Kingdom (or the church—I Cor. 12:13; Eph. 1:22f). There are loved ones, friends, neighbors, even nations—who need this “New Birth,” and the Lord’s people are the ones commissioned to get it to them (Acts 1:8; 8:4). “Each one reach one,” or “Each one reach someone” would be a good brotherhood resolution!!
3.Being a New Creature (II Cor. 5:17; Rom. 12:2), Bering the “fruit of the Spirit” (love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, self-control” - Gal. 5:22)is the new challenge for each of us seeking to follow in His footsteps (I Pet. 2:21-24; 4:1f). Whish is on of these traits just listed is Your strength? Your weakness? Your current need?
Therefore, resolve to get a New Focus on the New Covenant (Read, Memorize, Study, Share it); the New Birth (Clarify/Convert someone to do it), in a New Creature (further become that). If You so do, You will have a great year!