Bella Vista Church of Christ
LIFELINES
October 16, 2002 Paul Shero
Followers & Believers
The other day I read, "not all followers believe and not all believers follow." I had to think about that one. But it's true; some people do the correct things for the wrong reasons. For example, in John, chapter six, we find a lot of people following Jesus but they weren't believers. Paul even talks about PREACHERS WHO PREACH THE GOSPEL BUT OUT OF ENVY AND RIVALRY. (PHILIPPIANS 1.15) Followers but not believers. Motives do make a difference.
It is also possible to believe but not follow. James says DEMONS BELIEVE AND TREMBLE. But they do not obey. So not all believers follow. James says that kind of FAITH IS DEAD.
What is needed is to be a believer that follows.
TRUST AND OBEY; THERE IS NO OTHER WAY. Our doctrines must be correct. What we believe is important. Our actions must reflect the truth as well. Someone said our "walk" and our "talk" must be the same.
Jesus condemned those who honor with their lips while their hearts are far from Him. Make sure your heart is full of faith and your life is full of OBEDIENCE.
BE A BELIEVER WHO FOLLOWS.
BE A FOLLOWER WHO BELIEVES.
Paul Shero
