S.O.S.

Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain.

1 Corinthians 15:1-2

There was a big swing we used to take our kids to. It was massive. A rope probably 20 metres high secured to a big gum branch. It launched them so high and fast - of course they loved it. My heart was in my mouth every time. The rope was secure. The branch was strong. My biggest fear - that they would forget to hold firm.

The gospel we have received is unbreakable. It is an event that has happened in history - that can’t be undone. It is unshakable good news. And, the promise of the Bible is that Jesus will never let us go. His grip on us will never weaken or break. 

But, a repeated reminder (Hebrews 3:14, 4:14, 2 Thessalonians 2:15) is that we must hold firmly to Him. But this doesn’t mean just ‘believing more’ or ‘be better’. To hold firm is about remembering. Our issue is that we forget to strengthen our grip.

That’s why Paul wanted to remind the Corinthians of the gospel and that’s why today, when we come together, we hear God’s word preaching. Today, during the sermon, there will be many distractions. Opportunities to take the meandering path to daydreaming and fantasy. Opportunities to zone out. Or maybe for you, the issue is getting there altogether.

But don’t miss the opportunity to be reminded. To strengthen your grip on Christ and to keep holding on until the end of the ride.

For Today:

• Is the gospel the #1 thing you are holding onto in life?
• How are you going at holding on to the gospel?
• What’s one thing you could do better/more of to keep holding on?

Pray:

• Praise the Father that He is faithful and His grace never fails. 
• Give thanks for Jesus Christ whose work is finished and sure.
• Ask God for His Holy Spirit to help you and others keep holding on to Christ.