Good, but Not Good Enough

The Old Testament is a history of bad people with bad actions and good people with bad actions. In other words, it is a history of sin. The bad news precedes the good news.

The New Testament has a detailed history of the good news as a solution for the bad news, which came first.

What about the good people with good actions? Well, there are not very many, according to the Bible. In fact, the Bible says there are none. However, we will choose one who, by man’s standards, might fit.

His name is Cornelius, and he shows up in the Book of Acts, chapter 10. He is not a Jew; nor is he a Christian, nor a Buddhist, nor a Muslim.

He and all his family were devout and God fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. (Acts 10:2)

He was good, but not good enough. He needed help, and God sent it by an angel, by the Holy Spirit, and by Peter.

The angel answered, “Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a remembrance before God. Now send men to Joppa to bring a man named Simon who is called Peter. He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea.” (Acts 10:4-6)

If Cornelius were already good, why would he send for Peter?

“Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He will bring you a message through which you and all your household will be saved.” (Acts 11:13)

Cornelius and his household needed to be saved. He knew it, too. That is why he prayed to God regularly. If you are praying to God regularly and giving generously to those in need, it may mean that you’re searching for God, not that you have found him.

Questions? You can contact me by calling (208) 883-0997 or by sending an email to ccm@moscow.com. Our website address is http://ccmbooks.org.

(Taken from Good News/Bad News)

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