The Gospel: Man's Additions to Simple "Faith" (Part 6)

Man’s Additions to Simple “Faith”

Expressions misused for being saved:

• Accept: 1) This is not the term the Holy Spirit selected; 2) “Accept” is a passive idea where “believe” is an active idea; 3) Accept does not assume that I understand the gospel.

• Receive: 1) John 1:11-12; 2) John is talking about how the nation of Israel responded to Jesus; 3) The term describes Israel’s response; 4) The passage is descriptive; 5) The word is commanded only once in the New Testament, John 20:22; 6) The relationship of “receive” and “believe”: Believe is what we do; and receive is the result of believing; 7) Receiving Christ is crediting the unbeliever with an ability he doesn’t have.

• Revelation 3:20: 1) Addressed to the church at Laodicea; 2) Criticized for their lack of zeal; 3) They are chastened. God only does this with believers; 4) “Sup” [dine], v. 20—fellowship term: three words in the New Testament concerning meals: 1) Acrostima—a snack; 2) Ariston—a quick lunch; 3) Deipnon—long meal that involved lots of prolonged conversation. This is the word in Revelation 3:20.