Central Truth

Live such good lives among folks that, even if they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day He visits us.

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Reflections

What really struck me in the gospel accounts of the crucifixion were seven words in two statements: "He saved others," and "He trusts in God." The really wild thing is that the folks responsible for Jesus' crucifixion spoke these words about Him when He was hanging on the cross.

Luke records that even the criminal being crucified with Jesus knew of His innocence. In Matthew 26:59-60, the chief priests "kept trying to obtain false testimony against Jesus, so that they might put Him to death. They did not find any . . . ." Matthew also notes that both Pilate and his wife spoke of His innocence. Jesus lived such an excellent life that His enemies couldn't find any wrongdoing.

Talk about a serious example of 1 Peter 2:12 (NIV): "Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us."  Watermark pastor Todd Wagner mentioned this verse when addressing adoption. How cool would it be if we opened up our homes and hearts to this effort as a church in a serious way? Talk about having a positive impact on the world's view of the Church.

What actions should we be taking today to silence any slander of the larger Church in America? 1 Peter 2:15 (NIV) reminds us, "For such is the will of God that by doing right you may silence the ignorance of foolish men." I hate it when I'm passive. I feel alive when I am following God's will to help others.

How many folks would be attracted to Christ if He were clearly visible in our actions? Matthew 5:16 says, "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven." If we follow God's direction, others can't help but be drawn to Christ through us.

I challenge us all to have the following offered at our funerals: "He helped others; He trusted in God." That’s a life well lived.

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Discussion Questions

1. What action has God been directing you to take that you have been ignoring?

2. Quit thinking about yourself. How can you help others today?

3. Would your friends say that you trust in God?

FAMILY DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. Could Jesus have saved Himself (verse 42-43)? Why didn’t He save Himself?

2. Jesus did not ask God to save Him because He loves you. How does this make you feel about Jesus? Have you trusted in Him as your Savior?

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