We Got This Won
How many times do we hear of a sports team that gets a big lead and then start telling each other that "we got this won"; only to see the other team come back and beat them? Yes it happens quite often. If you are a fan of the sport, you can usually tell even though a team may be in the lead that they are going to lose the game. How can you tell? Because the team just gave up. They were convinced they would win, so that they just gave up trying. The game is not over until the clock runs out, or the buzzer goes off. As long as a team is in the game, they will continue to try to overcome their opponent.
But, let us turn this into a spiritual application for us. The other day, I read an article that asked why many Christians are not actively trying to evangelize or save souls. This is a matter of concern for many who are in the Lord's church and are wondering why so few are really involved in evangelism and the work of the church.
Perhaps one reason is because of our teaching about the book of Revelation. You see, the main theme of the book is this: "Jesus Wins". And if we are on the Lord's side, guess what? We win also. So perhaps many who are Christians have this attitude of "we got this won", and thus become lazy or just do not care to try hard to win. Remember that we are still in a battle all the time.
Perhaps another reason is because many who wear the name of Christ were not really converted. This would be evident by the lack of zeal and excitement necessary to encourage others. The idea of conversion is to change in several areas. The new convert must change their lifestyle and attitude. And if necessary, they need to change the relationships that they cherish. And of course their conduct and behavior need to be changed.
Some who wear the name of Christ really do not want to get involved in Christianity at all. This is very sad because we read in scripture that only those who diligently serve the master will be saved. This type of person is not involved and is not diligent in serving. For most of these, they really do nothing more that warm the pews in the church building. They do not spend time with other Christians, and they seem to dislike the others because it seems they cannot get out the door fast enough.
Many of these have a lack of commitment. Each of us makes a promise to God when we are baptized that we will dedicate our life to Him. That usually does not last long, unless the person allows others to assist and edify them. There are many willing to help these weak Christians, but they have to want the help in the first place. This comes from having a heart focused upon God and seeking to please God. We are to "seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness" (Matthew 6:33). Whenever we put something before God, it becomes difficult if not impossible to do.
Another problem is because many do not understand their personal responsibility towards God, their fellow Christians, and the lost. We are to be servants. If we fail to serve our fellow man as we should, God is not going to welcome us with open arms just because we wear His name. The Bible teaches us that we are to try to be like Jesus, and Jesus was a servant dedicated to serving God faithfully, and in the process, giving us an example worth following. Jesus said, "not My will, but Thine be done" Luke 22:42).
By Carey Scott

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