Reformation Faith
Theme of the Week: Who's In? Who's Out?
Friday, July 8, 2005
 1 of 1
Key Bible Verse: He made you holy by means of Christ Jesus, just as he did all Christians everywhere (1 Corinthians 1:2). Bonus Reading: 1 Cor. 1:30;6:9-11
It doesn't matter which side of town you live on when you come into the family of God. And by using biblical principles, the church can promote social justice.
A young man in our church stole $1,500 from his employer. After being apprehended, he was sentenced to three years in prison. We shared with the judge the biblical principle of restitution. We explained how this young man would cost the taxpayers over $18,000 annually for a $1,500 crime—which wouldn't pay back the victim and only place this kid in an environment where he'd simply learn how to become a better criminal.
We challenged the judge to turn the young man over to our church. We'd get him a job, garnishee his wages, paying back his former employer with interest. We'd also give him a responsible male mentor to hold him accountable, rebuild this young man's value system, and show him a brand-new person in six months.
The judge consented. We did all we promised and brought back a brand-new young man. The judge asked if we'd take twenty more! Today that young man is a dynamic part of our church with a family of his own.
—Tony Evans in What a Way to Live!
My Response: Am I willing to help guide into restoration someone who succumbs to sin?
Thought to Apply: The church is not a society of the successful. It is a fellowship of the forgiven.—ROBERT MUNGER (writer)
Adapted from What a Way to Live! (Word, 1997) by permission.
Copyright © 2005 by the author or Christianity Today International/Men of Integrity magazine.Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity. 1 of 1
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Lord Jesus, I tend to cold-shoulder those You reach out to with compassion. Please change my heart.
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