How should the promise of salvation influence our interactions with non-believers? The Foundation: Chosen for Salvation, Not Wrath “For God has not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Thessalonians 5:9) Seeing Others Through the Lens of Rescue • Salvation is a rescue mission, not a reward program. • Every conversation with a non-believer becomes an opportunity to extend that rescue. • John 3:17 reminds us: “For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through Him.” The aim is deliverance, not condemnation. Adopting Christ’s Posture of Mercy • Romans 5:8 shows God initiating love “while we were still sinners.” • Following His example means moving first—offering kindness before it’s earned. • Titus 3:3-5 outlines our own past lostness; remembering this keeps interactions humble and compassionate. Practical Ways Salvation Shapes Our Words and Actions • Speak hope: weave the certainty of Christ’s rescue into everyday talk. • Listen patiently: salvation came to us through God’s patience (2 Peter 3:9). Mirror that patience when doubts surface. • Live visibly changed: integrity, grace under pressure, and consistent joy make salvation tangible (Philippians 2:14-16). • Season conversations: “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). Truth and tenderness travel together. Guarding Against Pride and Judgment • The promise of salvation eliminates boasting (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Remembering we were spared wrath solely by grace curbs any superior attitude. • Judgmental tones push seekers away; gentleness draws them in (2 Timothy 2:24-25). Fuel for Perseverance in Witness • The guaranteed outcome—God’s appointed salvation—motivates steady outreach. • 2 Corinthians 5:18-20 calls us “ambassadors” of reconciliation; we represent certainty, not speculation. • When results seem slow, rely on the promise: God is still appointing people to salvation through the message we carry. |
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