Devotionals

Gods invitation

by Susan Barnes 
03/29/17
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"I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved." John 10:9 NIV

The Bible is filled with passages which speak about "whoever," or "anyone who," or in the KJV "whosoever". The most well-known being John 3:16, " For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes ..." It is an all-inclusive invitation. Yet there are still people who believe that while Christianity works for others, it won't work for them.

Perhaps this was Thomas' problem in John 20. The other disciples told him that they had seen Jesus alive but Thomas replied, "I will not believe," unless he had the visible proof of seeing and feeling Jesus' nail scarred hands (v. 25). Thomas chose not to believe Jesus was alive. So many today choose not to believe. They naively say, "I'm glad it works for you." However, truth is not relative, or dependent on how we feel, but on Jesus, who is the truth (John 14:6).

God has given the opportunity to "whoever" is willing to take the step of faith and believe. Those who are prepare to go against the thinking of the world, the pressure of unbelieving friends, and the lies of the devil. Thomas came to faith, despite his doubts, because of his openness and honesty. The second time Jesus appeared to the disciples, he was there. He chose to put himself in the place where God could meet him. Likewise everyone has the choice of putting themselves in a place where they are open to the possibility of faith.

God's all-encompassing invitation is still available to "whoever" has an open and honest heart.