but i believe…

so what is real faith?  that is a good question.  well for one real faith is not just something you believe.

james 2.19 (niv), you believe that there is one GOD.  good!  even the demons believe that – and shudder!

there are a lot of people who have strong beliefs in GOD, the bible, about CHRIST.  they can recite creeds to you and catechisms and talk about doctrines of the trinity, quote bible verses but james says, “big deal!”  just saying i believe in GOD is not enough to get into heaven.  even the devil believes that.

the bible says in proverbs, the fool has said in his heart, there is no GOD.  it’s foolish to be an atheist and the devil is no fool.  the devil believes in GOD.  the devil is a great theologian.  he knows a lot more bible than you do.  he’s been around a whole lot longer.  he knows theology backwards and forwards.  he believes.  his demons believe and shudder.

the greek word for shudder is “to bristle” – their hair stands on end.  it’s the kind of word you’d use reading a steven king novel.  why?  because the devils understand the majesty and awesomeness of GOD.  they believe in GOD and they tremble they shudder..

folks, i believe in hitler but i’m no nazi.  i’m a CHRISTian i believe in JESUS but it’s more than just a head knowledge.

a lot of people are going to miss heaven by 18 inches.  they’ve got it in their heads but not their heart.  they say, “i believe in GOD.”  james says, “big deal.  everybody believes in GOD.”  how do you have a creation without a creator but that’s not enough.

real faith is not just saying “i believe.”  there is so much easy believeism in america.  an article in the orange county register said, “many in orange county believe but don't practice.”  they did a survey and asked people all over orange county and they found a high degree of belief.  “sure i’m a believer.  i’m a christian.”  do you attend church?  “no.”  do you donate your time?  “no.”   do you tithe?  “no.”  james says that’s a phony belief.  you’re just conning yourself.  a lot of people are doing that.

just a thought from the front porch…