Naïve Christians
My eye caught the headlines, but disbelief was in my heart. No one could be so dumb. I read it again.
Atheists are capitalizing on Christians who believe that Jesus will return and take believers out of this world. Atheists are selling “insurance” policies to wrap up details for Christians who will leave when Jesus comes. A fee of about $15 per month will set up a databank with an atheist who will finalize contacts via email to appropriate persons/parties that should know the Christian has left and will not be back.
Atheists are also making money off pet lovers. For a fee an atheist will contract to get your pet and take care of it after you have left in the Rapture.
Seems to me that atheists are demonstrating a lot of faith. Atheists have faith in the gullibility of religious persons who have less sense than a mule on a farm in Missouri.
Think about it. $15.00 per month can support a missionary---making the difference between subsistence and full-time. Which makes the most sense? When Jesus comes those ready will be leaving without saying “goodbye” or taking a backward look at what is being left behind.
Meanwhile, if you read this letter you will know that Saturday, May 21, 2011, was not the end of the world. One man has spent a fortune [millions] trying to warn the world of disaster. Ever wonder why skeptical unbelievers think Christians are weird?
Fact is, the Bible is quite clear that the earth will be here for at least 1,007 years and a little season after the Rapture (Coming of Jesus for believers). Chill out. Cool down. Read the program (BOOK). Occupy until He comes (Luke 19:13). I do not know when He will come. I do not know the day or hour---when you don’t expect it (Matt. 24: 36). It does seem the time is near. I do believe what happens with Israel is a critical part of the timeline pointing to the Coming of Jesus. It does seem to me that the world hating Israel is part of the ingredient leading to the anti-christ setting up his kingdom (after the Rapture). It does seem that pieces of the puzzle are fitting together mighty fast.
Yet, Jesus’ instructions are to be ready. We ought to live like folks getting ready to leave…even while we live like folks who have a purpose here on earth. We are commanded to keep our hearts in prayer and eyes heavenward, even as we labor with diligence to bring people to Jesus and make disciples.
The best proof of a person believing in the Coming of Jesus is his/her love for the Body (Church), life of holiness before the Lord, witness of Christ before others, and willingness to passionately live the Great Commission.
Talk comes cheap. Talk is just words unless the heart and hands are committed to covenant with the words from the mouth. Words from the mouth without character are hypocritical. We are wise to remember that Jesus said there will be many on Judgment Day who will argue their righteousness, but Jesus will answer “I never knew you” (Matthew 25).
I wonder if the Christians who buy insurance from atheists also tithe? Do you? We do put our money where our heart is. We ought to be about Our Father’s business as if it is the most important reason for our being on earth. Living life fully in Christ is the best way to be prepared for the return of Jesus.
Just thinking.
Pastor Bare
Matthew 24:44
Friends: Eleven years old I was and paperboy for the McElwee Family. Bill, my age—same month, and I became friends. Our relationship has continued to the present. Last Sunday Bill flew to Charlottesville, rented a car and came to Covenant Church. It was a reunion that delighted my heart. His mother was one of the great prayer warriors for me. Bill and I have spent many hours through the years talking about the journey of life. Friendship is an investment. I cherish this special friendship that is longer than any other in my life.