November 3, 2017 Brethren Letter

Dear Brethren,

Jesus said, ‘The things that are impossible for people to do are possible for God to do.’ (Luke 18:27 – GWT)

How many times in our lives have we used the words, “It’s impossible”? A rich man once asked Jesus what he should do to have eternal life. Christ responded, “You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’ ” (Luke 18:20). The young man immediately told Jesus that he had kept the commandments from his youth.

Then, Jesus said to this rich man …”You still lack one thing. Sell all that you have and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” (verse 22).

When he heard Christ’s words, he was deeply grieved and very sorrowful because he had great wealth. He just simply could not give up his worldly treasures and follow Christ. The disciples were somewhat perplexed and asked Jesus, …“Who then can be saved?” Jesus answered, “The things that are impossible for people to do are possible for God to do.” (verse 27 – GWT). Christ was showing the disciples that there was an element of salvation with God that was not possible with men.

When God calls us (John 6:44) by His Holy Spirit, that which would be impossible for men to do of themselves becomes possible through the Father. Through the Father’s calling, we are given an opportunity to repent and follow Christ. That’s where salvation begins.

As I close tonight’s letter, I will quote a paragraph from the booklet, All About Water Baptism by Mr. Armstrong.

Paul says God’s Law “IS SPIRITUAL,” and that the carnal (unconverted) mind is not subject to the Law and CANNOT be (Rom. 7:14 and 8:7). The order of God is: 1st) preach the Gospel, leading to a conviction of sin in the hearts of those God calls, leading to REPENTANCE and FAITH in Christ; 2nd) BAPTISM; and 3rd) they shall receive the HOLY SPIRIT, which renews their minds, teaches them, reveals spiritual truth.

We have much to be thankful for with God’s calling! “The things that are impossible for people to do are possible for God to do.”

Have a wonderful Sabbath!

Your Brother in Christ,

Gary Liebold