FAMILIARITY IS NOT FAITH
In the town of Nazareth, where Jesus had grown up, he returned from his forty days in the wilderness to begin his public ministry. He attended the local synagogue and chose the passage from the Isaiah scroll that spoke of the Anointed One who would come. The word “anointed” is where the Hebrews get the word “Messiah,” and where the Greeks get the word “Christos.” Having read this passage, he lifted his eyes from the Scripture and instead of offering the usual commentary, he claimed to be the “fulfillment” of Isaiah’s prophecy. He claimed to be the Christ. This created quite a stir in the small synagogue. His hometown people rejected his claim saying, “Is not this Joseph’s son?” Their familiarity with Jesus actually caused them to doubt him.
Is this happening in America, where most are familiar with the story of Jesus, but not many believe in him as Lord and Savior? Even for those who grew up attending church, have they equated knowledge of Jesus with saving faith? For familiarity is not faith.
PRAYER: Dear Father, we not only know about Jesus, but we have believed in Him as Lord and Savior. We have trusted in His payment on the cross for our sins and His resurrection for our justification. And we have the Spirit of Christ abiding within us, affirming our new status as children of God. We praise You, Father, for the gift of Your Son and of Your Spirit. In Jesus’ name, amen.