The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Peter 4:17-19, “For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us first, what will

be the outcome for those who do not obey the gospel of God?

18 And if it is with difficulty that the righteous is saved, what will become of the godless man and the sinner?

19 Therefore, let those also who suffer according to the will of God entrust their souls to a faithful Creator in doing

what is right.”

A current story in a web-based Christian newspaper carries this headline:

“A Nigerian civil society organization estimates that about 620 Christians were killed and hundreds of homes,

as well as churches, were damaged in Nigeria since the beginning of the year as attacks carried about by Fulani

radicals and Islamic terrorists continue” (The Christian Post).

Whatever you might make of such a headline, the overall truth is that Christianity is under attack and has been for a considerable time. Peter’s warning of the “time for judgment” teaches that judgment will “begin with the household of God.”

It’s a shame to believe that the LORD, who gave Himself on the Cross for our sins, would have to execute judgment

upon us because we have not divested ourselves of the sins that took Him to the Cross. Peter continues by saying that if we, who are already saved by the blood of Jesus Christ, are to be judged, what a tremendous judgment awaits those who have not accepted Jesus as their Savior! Still, that is no comfort to us as believers! We have drifted far from our LORD’s will and are certain to suffer for it, although not eternally in Hell.

Yet, I hear you say, “I have trusted Him! Why should I suffer further?” That’s saying, “I’m saved, and I’ll never be doomed to Hell, but I can live like those who are not saved and be accepted by them.” These are they who are saved by His grace, but willingly drift from His instruction. Yet, they will pay a price in His judgment right here on Earth!

Others, who do not know Him, may seem to escape judgment, but will suffer according to the pre-determined will of f God.

The capstone of Peter’s thesis is exceedingly clear: “…let those also who suffer according to the will of God” simply remember that they have entrusted “their souls to the Faithful Creator in doing what is right.” If you’ve say that you have been born-again and are enjoying living apart from the will of God, be very careful. Were I you, I would re-examine my life carefully. It is more than likely that you have trusted “religion” or “church membership” of even “baptism” instead of our “faithful Creator.” He alone is the One who saves!

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.

Springdale, Arkansas 72764

United States of America

“We never know that God is all we need

until He becomes all that we have.”