SERVING GOD WITH SINCERITY

Does it really matter what you believe and practice in service to God as long as you do it with a sincere attitude?

In answer to the question, I affirm that sincerity is necessary if we intend to follow the Lord. I must quickly add hat commitment to know and obey God's truth is necessary also. We must honor God by adhering to his word. For the man of God to be furnished unto all good works he must know the scriptures which make him wise unto salvation thru faith which is in Christ Jesus.

The Psalmist declares that God's word is a "lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path," Psalms 119:105. Sincere people who attempt to serve God in a direction that God's light doesn't shine cannot walk in the old path. Jeremiah warned people in his time to ask for the old paths, the good way, and walk therein so that they would find rest for your souls.

In Acts 18:24-28, we learn of Apollos, an eloquent man and mighty in the scriptures. He was fervent in the spirit and taught diligently the things of the Lord, However, his knowledge was lacking. Aquila and Priscilla heard him speak and took him aside and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly. Apollos was sincere but was teaching error. He was still teaching the baptism of John after Christ had already come and commanded baptism for the remission of sins by His authority.

Paul was sincere and zealous in what he believed. He once thought it right as a Jew to fight against Christ and persecute Christians, Acts 26:9. He would compel them to blaspheme. He would put them in prison and have them put to death. He admits that he was exceedingly mad against them, Acts 26:9-12. And, you know, he did it with a good conscience before God too, Acts 23:1. But he was wrong. Jesus told him that he was kicking against the pricks, Acts 9:5.

The point to understand is that Apolos and Paul were both sincere in how they were serving God. But they were not following in the old path. They were not allowing the light of God direct their steps. They were wrong.

When they learned the truth, they changed. Friends this is what truly sincere people do. They change when they find that they are wrong

By Wendell Ward

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