Cartoonology. There is great theology in cartoons and comics.
Matthew 13:9 (NKJV)
9 He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"
9 He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"
There is hearing and then there is hearing. The word used in the text above connotes more than just hearing but also carries with it the idea of paying attention or giving audience to. In other words, listening.
Listening has always been a challenge to me. If I were in school today, I am sure they would put me in the Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) group. In fact, I think I belong in that group now. My wife would agree. However, this is not a convenient excuse. Listening is also a skill that can be learned (I almost feel like a hypocrite saying this!).
Jesus was telling the Parable of the Sower when he gave these words (Matthew 13:1-23). He is talking about one’s response to the Gospel Message and the Kingdom of God. One must hear the message with depth of understanding and purity of heart. Then, the “seeds” of that message will take root and bear fruit – namely salvation.
In truth, we usually only hear what we are listening for. With so many mixed and false messages coming at us about spiritual truth, we must focus even more today in order to sort out what really is true. I once heard a person say that there is no absolute truth, a common belief today, which is taught in our schools and universities. I asked the person, “Are you absolutely sure that is true?” There was no answer. This idea of no absolute truth is absurd and so far away from reality. One absolute truth is that people die. We can hardly deny that! Then comes the judgment of God (Hebrews 9:27-28).
Ezekiel 33:8-9 (NKJV)
8 When I say to the wicked, 'O wicked man, you shall surely die!' and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at your hand.
9 Nevertheless if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but you have delivered your soul.
8 When I say to the wicked, 'O wicked man, you shall surely die!' and you do not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood I will require at your hand.
9 Nevertheless if you warn the wicked to turn from his way, and he does not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity; but you have delivered your soul.
Embrace the truth of God’s Word today. Trust Christ as your only Lord and Savior and live. 03-10-09
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