“I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot. So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I will spue thee out of my mouth.” Revelations 3:15-16 KJV
I wrote the title for this blog down earlier this year, but I wasn’t compelled to write about it until now. As I look around at the things that are going on at this present time in the world, as well as in the church, I now understand why. My heart has been heavily grieved by the things that I have witnessed personally and have also read across various social platforms. So many people who proclaim to be “believers” are compromising the Word of God, their faith, and their salvation—to either fit into societal norms, participate in worldly behavior, or simply be accepted by those who have no desire to live according to biblical principles. Many “believers” are afraid to speak up for what is right or speak out against the things that they know are wrong. They will simply turn a blind eye to it, out of fear of being ostracized or viewed as being “judgmental.” So instead of correction, excuses and justifications are given for wrongdoings and willful sin.
“Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, and the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” 1 John 2:15-17 KJV
If we are to be effective as true disciples representing the kingdom of God, we must be devoted to doing the will of God — walking in purpose and conviction. We can’t become complacent, lackadaisical, or passive when it comes to standing up for righteousness. Nor can we be lukewarm — only “living holy” during Sunday services or other “religious” events. Neglecting our need for God, only spending time with Him when it’s convenient or beneficial to us. Meanwhile indulging in everything that is pleasing to our flesh: going to church part-time, frequenting places that we shouldn’t, using foul language, listening to obscene music, or watching tv shows and movies that are inappropriate. What type of message does this send to non-believers or those who may be new in their walk with Christ?
“Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you. And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty.” 2 Corinthians 6:17-18 KJV
There is nothing casual about Christianity nor being a child of the Most High God. We didn’t get saved simply to sit down. We can’t sit back and do nothing. If we are to be ambassadors for Christ, we can’t be lukewarm when it comes to standing up for righteousness. Holiness should always be the standard. He did not call us out or set us apart, just to be walking contradictions of His Word. If we profess to be of the kingdom of God, we can’t have one foot in the church and one still in the world. Again, I ask, what kind of messages does that send to the non-believers and the unsaved? This type of behavior makes us look like hypocrites, not only in their sight but also in the eyes of God. We are to be a light in this dark world, not blending in with it.
“No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:24 KJV
I am in no way or by any means trying to look down upon anyone because we all have been a “Casual Christian” in some form at some point in our life. There’s always room for improvement in all of us. Being a true believer and carrying ourselves as such, does not mean that we think that we are “better than” anyone — we simply know what is at stake – our soul salvation. For there is coming a day and time where being casual is not an option. Joshua 24:15 says, “And if it seems evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve.” Time is winding up….it’s either Holiness or Hell. There is no easy way to put it.
"And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it: but whosoever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.” Luke 9:23-24 KJV
For those who find themselves being casual or carnal-minded, I pray for your strength and deliverance — that you will be able to put off the ways of this world and walk in holy boldness and obedience.
“The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9 KJV
To those who are not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, keep being warriors, holding fast to what the Word teaches us, and keep standing on the promises of God. Continue to walk in obedience, remain faithful, and stay the course. John 9:4 says, “I must work the works of Him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.”
Be Blessed My Brothers and Sisters of the Most High God!
