Wed., 12/7/16 Devotion (2 Jn. 10)

Today's encouragement comes from 2 John, v. 10, where we read these words:

"If anyone comes to you and does not bring this doctrine, do not receive him into your house nor greet him."

These (above) are interesting words from the tender and sensitive "apostle of love," (John). Do not sweet and kind people listen to anyone? Are they not open to everyone's take on God and “truth"? Actually, no. Real love says, “Who are you to come to my house with a false gospel of works? I serve the God of heaven, who gave His Son for my sins. I do not need, nor will l toler-ate your dishonor of Him."

Does this mean we do not try to reach poor sinners bound-up in heresy? No, it does not mean that. Here is the rule we should go by: inform all works-righteousness people that *we*, not they, will do the evangelizing. If they want to listen, fine; if not, "adieu."

[Puritan quote of the day: "A great part of the pleasure and delight of the Christian life is made out of the observations of Providence.” —John Flavel, in, "The Mystery of Providence"]