Marked Down Christianity
By: Lavern Stewart (1976)
Did you ever hear a sermon, or read an article, on bargain religion?
Many lessons have been delivered on the subject of preachers telling lost people that they can be saved by faith only, or by praying for forgiveness; however, in this article, I am setting forth the suggestion that members of the church of the Lord are seeking a marked down form of Christianity when they seek to be saved eternally without living a dedicated life.
Does God mark down the price for some members? The Bible teaches to love God above all else, Matthew 22:37. Has He marked this down to some so that they can put Him third or fourth in their affections? Further, disciples are told to put the kingdom "first" - will God discount on this point? Jesus said that we must deny self and carry the cross daily, Luke 9:23. Can we make a change from this seven day week denial of self to a one day per week situation?
From Matthew 25:14-30 we learn that everyone must use his ability in the service of God or else he becomes an unprofitable servant. Have you marked down this high price by not using your ability to do something really necessary for God, maybe by doing what others of less ability can do? Let us pay the price that God has put on Christianity.