Two different results

Hebrews 4:12 says, “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” A lot of members of churches of Christ remember that years ago many were baptized in gospel meetings, and as the result of members teaching others.

As much as we reminisce about times past, the truth is, there are still countless thousands of people who obey the gospel, which is based on the cleansing blood of Jesus. Hebrews 4:12 said that the word can divide between the joints and marrow. Our intensive knowledge of anatomy confirms that it takes a strong, sharp tool to separate the two. Spiritually, the gospel can accomplish this in the hearts of people who hear it.

In Acts 2:37, the people who heard Peter preach were “pricked in their hearts.” The  gospel did this! In Acts 7:54, the people who heard Stephen’s response were “cut to the heart.” The gospel did this! In Acts 2, the people repented of their sins and obeyed the gospel. In Acts 7, the people rushed Stephen and stoned him. The same response produced two different results.

What kind of response will it produce in you? Proverbs 15:5 says, “A fool despiseth his father’s instruction: but he that regardeth reproof is prudent.” Proverbs 15:32 says, “He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding.” The people listening to Stephen didn’t care about the truth -- and they killed him. People now who don’t care about the truth are consigning themselves to the devil’s hell (Matthew 25:41). Don’t be one of them! Obey the “perfect law of liberty” and be “blessed in … deed” (James 1:25).

Kyle Campbell