The Grands Letter

Dear Grands,

1 Peter 4:1-7, “Therefore, since Christ has suffered in the flesh, arm yourselves also with the same purpose, because he who has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin,
2 so as to live the rest of the time in the flesh no longer for the lusts of men, but for the will of God.
3 For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties and abominable idolatries.
4 In all this, they are surprised that you do not run with them into the same excesses of dissipation, and they malign you;
5 but they will give account to Him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
6 For the gospel has for this purpose been preached even to those who are dead, that though they are judged in the flesh as men, they may live in the spirit according to the will of God.
7 The end of all things is near; therefore, be of sound judgment and sober spirit for the purpose of prayer.”

The suffering of Jesus Christ on the cross is beyond human comprehension! He was interrogated thoroughly, whipped mercilessly, stripped naked, nailed to a cross, and left to die amid the blood-thirsty cries of those whom He loved and for whom He was dying!

His people, the Jews, had succumbed to the excessively sinful ways of the Gentiles. Both groups grossly misjudged Jesus’ purpose and will suffer divine judgment for their sin against Him. He was and is their only hope of salvation.

Peter states that Christ Jesus’ sufferings were for the salvation of all mankind. And their deafening cries agreed with His death on the cross. Yet, His suffering and death encompasses all mankind –if only the lost will receive it.

That’s what the Gospel is all about. It proclaims hope to those whose lives are in sin…those who have not received Him as LORD and Savior. If you are one of those who has yet to receive Him, do it now and without delay! The Scripture says, “The end of all things is near…”

One final thought: What do you have to lose by turning away from sin and trusting Jesus for eternal salvation? If He cannot save you, you lose nothing. But, if He does save you, you’ve gained the best for this life and for eternal life to come! Think about it.

Heartily in Christ Jesus,

(Dado III)

Gene L. Jeffries, Th.D.
Springdale, Arkansas 72764
United States of America

“We never know that Christ is all we need until He becomes all that we have.” – Corrie ten Boom