Drawing Near to God
James 4:7-10
Introduction.If we believe that there is
a God, all of us would desire to be able to be close to Him. (Psalm 96:1-5).
It is evident that while we are in this world we are not close in proximity
to God. Ecc. 5:2 - “For God [is] in heaven, and you on earth”
If we believe in the Bible we learn that disobedience to His revealed word
magnifies this separation in that it causes us to be spiritually separated
from God. (Isaiah 59:1,2).
The sad thing about this life is that because of this disobedience (which
the Bible calls sin) all are separated from God. (Romans 3:23).
The purpose of Christ’s coming to earth
is to give man a way that we may draw near to God. (Hebrews 10:19-22).
This morning let’s focus on vs. 22 and consider some of what is involved
in this drawing near to God.
We Must Draw Near To God...
I. “With a True Heart.”
- Not in word only (Matthew 15:8).
- Out of the heart are the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23).
II. “In Full Assurance of Faith.”
- Without it we cannot please Him (Hebrews 11:6).
- The Christian lives by faith (Galatians 2:20).
III. “Having Our Hearts Sprinkled From an Evil Conscience.”
- The conscience alone can’t save (Acts 23:1).
- The conscience can condemn (Romans 14:22).
When a person comes to Christ it is an appeal
to God for a good conscience. When we receive forgiveness we can have a
good conscience.
IV. “And Our Bodies Washed With Pure Water.”
- Baptism is an appeal for a good conscience. (I Peter 3:20,21).
- In Baptism sin is washed away (Acts 22:16).