Christ, and Christ Alone
Scripture Reading — Acts 8:9-25
“You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God.”
—Acts 8:21
The Bible tells us that Simon believed and was baptized. But he probably didn’t realize to what degree he was just trying to use Jesus. Simon wanted glory, attention, power, and money; Jesus, it seemed to him, was his “ticket” to gain all this.
It’s a common problem, unfortunately. Do you ever wonder what would happen to your church if it didn’t serve coffee and donuts? If it didn’t have cool music? If there weren’t tax benefits to giving? If the sermons were long and boring?
What I’m asking is, if nobody is around, and if there is nothing going on that benefits your earthly self, are you still into Christ, and Christ alone?
Can you peel off the layers—your social self, your work-life self, your family identity, your financial status, your “dressed up to look good for church” image? If you strip all that away, what is left? That’s what Jesus sees. Your sin—but also the cross.
Do you recognize the message of Christ, his call, and his claim on your life? Have you truly taken hold of salvation?
Maybe you are unhappy in your soul because you are relying on things other than Christ to prop yourself up, but you have remained outside of true salvation.
Jesus. It’s all about Jesus. You get that—right?
Lord, I pray today that I may truly be saved. I have so many false things in me, and so many superficial thoughts. Give me Jesus. Amen.
About the author — Keith Mannes
Keith Mannes serves as pastor at Highland Christian Reformed Church in McBain, Michigan. Keith and his wife, Alicia, recently celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary,
and they are thankful for their three children—Eben, Charis, and Breanna.
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