July 30, 2017 (Proverbs 28:18)

“Whoever walks blamelessly will be saved; but he who is perverse in his ways will suddenly fall” (Prov 28:18).  Continuing last week’s theme, this proverb contains a wealth of benefits for those taking the inspired word of God seriously. Its message is amplified by a previous proverb stating, “He who covers his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and for-sakes them will have mercy” (28:13). Human nature in its depraved ways since the Fall is such that when something is done contrary to God’s revealed will and there is absence of immediate consequence, there is a tendency to think deceitfulness did not matter. Yet we are warned that even every word spoken will be held accountable on that coming Day. It is great solace to know the atoning work of Jesus covers our rebellious ways, but His sacrifice does not extend to those perverse in their ways, even though they may profess Him to be their Savior. It is a travesty in today’s Church that the idea is promoted that Jesus can be one’s Savior without also being the Lord of a person’s life.  The meanings of Greek words translated into Savior and Lord are entirely different. Jesus warns there will be many who refer to Him as their Lord, but will be told at judgment, “I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness” (Matthew 7:22).  So much for those who refuse to confess and forsake their known deliberate sins against the will of God. Amen