Faith Test

Today’s Bible Reading:  1 Samuel 14; 1 Chronicles 4; 2 Corinthians 13

Journal Entry on a passage from today’s reading:

Topic: Salvation

SCRIPTURE:  2 Corinthians 13:5

Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ Jesus is in you — unless, of course, you fail the test? (2 Cor 13:5 NIV)

OBSERVATION:

What is the test that determines whether one is “in the faith” or not? We are admonished to give ourselves an examination—to test ourselves—to see if we really are born again Christians—that is, part of God’s family—“in the faith.” Then we are given the grading key for the test: If your examination does not find “Christ Jesus in you,” you fail the test; and this is evidenced by unrepentant sin (2 Cor 12:21).

APPLICATION:

Salvation from the death penalty of sin comes only by accepting Christ into one’s life. It is not determined by how righteously we behave. Neither is one’s salvation forfeited by his sinful human stumblings. However, willful unrepented sin is an indicator of the absence of Jesus within.

PRAYER:

Lord, in my weakness and failings may I ever have a repentant heart that strives for righteousness with Your help. In Christ Jesus. Amen.  -AP