Pastor Leon’s SOAP:  Scripture, Observation, Application, Prayer
July 25, 2023: SOAP #4982: Isaiah 43-45; 1Peter 4

SCRIPTURE:  1Peter (NIV) 4:4 They think it strange that you do not plunge with them into the same flood of dissipation, and they heap abuse on you. 5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead. 6 For this is the reason the gospel was preached even to those who are now dead, so that they might be judged according to men in regard to the body, but live according to God in regard to the spirit.

OBSERVATION:  When people are born again, their life style changes.  Old friends try to pressure them back into the parties and revelry they used to enjoy.  I went from Bible school, studying to be a missionary when the Lord sent me into the US Navy.  What a change that was!  

Especially overseas, sailors and marines would try to pressure me into joining their drunken parties.  If they could get me to join them, it would allow them to think that what they were doing was not so bad.  But the Lord was with me and strengthened me, thanks to the prayers of friends back home. 

APPLICATION:  Jesus is READY to judge the living and the dead.  He does not need to get ready; He IS ready!   He does not have to study up on the law by which sin will be judged; He IS the author of the Law.  He knows the temptation to sin; He knows the attraction of sin; He knows the penalty of sin; He knows what it takes to cover sin!   HE IS READY to judge!  He personally provided the sacrifice of sinless blood to cover the sins of everyone who repents!  HE IS READY!  

Now, are you ready?  This is a good time to acknowledge our sin and receive the forgiveness Jesus paid for with His death on the cross. 

PRAYER:  Lord Jesus, when it comes to sin, I plead guilty.  I have broken the laws you gave to man for our protection.  I now receive your forgiveness, your salvation.  I now receive you as the Lord of my life.  I set my heart and mind to know you and love you. Make my heart your home.  Amen 

Pastor Leon
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