GOSPEL TRUTH: Don’t Ignore It!

Cautionary advice from Proverbs 29:1…..

 

 

“He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.”                    (Proverbs 29:1) 

 

 

 

Warning signs are for our good. You may find one near to a railway line alerting you to the fact that it is dangerous to be on or near the track. A trespasser on the line can expected to be killed by a train. Other places which may pose a risk to the unwary also display warning signs to make us aware. We ignore them at our own peril.

 

Similarly, the Bible is a book containing warnings. Many people object to them and find them unpleasant. However, just as some people may know more than us and are therefore in a position to warn us, God knows more than we do and has placed warnings in His Word for our own good. One such warning is found in Proverbs 29:1: “He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” What does this verse mean?

 

Every human being possesses a conscience which can be used or suppressed. The Holy Spirit convicts us of sin (Jn.16:8) through the Word of God, making us aware of our guilt before a holy God. Instead of humbly bending our neck when we are “reproved” in this way, we often do the opposite and refuse to make the correct response. Time and again this may be done until the point of no return is reached. The person who refuses the convicting voice of God and continues in sin is playing with fire. One day may be the last, and you will be lost “without remedy”.

 

The Bible is not only a book of warnings: it also contains invitations. Jesus said, “Come unto Me … and I will give you rest” (Mt.11:28). Although we are guilty before God, pardon is offered through the Lord Jesus who died on the cross for our sins. If we refuse His salvation we will one day face His judgment and pay the price of our refusal. It is a risk not worth taking. Why not trust in Christ today?

 

 

I DO BELIEVE, I WILL BELIEVE,

THAT JESUS DIED FOR ME,

THAT ON THE CROSS HE SHED HIS BLOOD,

FROM SIN TO SET ME FREE.

 

1. W. COWPER