The Danger of Rejecting God\'s Prophets By: Major Frank Materu
Key Scripture: Matthew 23:37 - "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing."
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Introduction:
In these times, the call to repentance and transformation is increasingly necessary. Yet, as we witness the chaos of the world, many have found themselves caught in the trap of rejecting the messengers that God sends to them. The prophets, chosen by God, come not to bring destruction but to reveal the truth and call people back to righteousness. However, many refuse correction, preferring to remain in their own delusions and pride. This message is for those who call themselves followers of Christ but live in opposition to His Word. To refuse God's prophets is to refuse God Himself.
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The Sin of Persecuting God's Messengers
God’s messengers are sent with a divine purpose: to expose the sin in our lives and call us to repentance. Yet, throughout history, the response to God’s prophets has often been one of rejection, abuse, and even murder. The religious leaders of the time were particularly guilty of this. They were more concerned with maintaining their power and status than accepting the correction that God offered through His messengers. In Matthew 23:37, Jesus laments over Jerusalem, illustrating the tragic outcome of rejecting those whom God sends. "O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you..."
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The Deception of Religion Without Relationship
The spirit of religion is rampant today, as it was in the days of Jesus. Many are bound in religious practices that keep them from a true relationship with God. They prefer rituals and ceremonies over true conversion. In Matthew 15:8, Jesus rebukes the religious leaders, saying, "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me." Religion without relationship leads to hypocrisy, and the truth is hidden from those who choose tradition over transformation.
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The Consequences of Rejecting God's Word
When people reject God’s prophets, they are rejecting His Word. The consequences are severe, as it is God’s Word that leads to repentance, salvation, and true peace. The rejection of God’s messengers is a rejection of His mercy and grace. Hosea 4:6 warns, "My people are destroyed from lack of knowledge." This lack of knowledge comes when we fail to listen to God's prophets and His Word, instead choosing to follow our own understanding and desires. The resulting consequences are destructive and far-reaching, leaving people in a state of spiritual death and separation from God.
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Living in the Truth: Embracing God’s Prophets
God calls us to humble ourselves, accept His correction, and turn from our sinful ways. The true prophets of God do not come to condemn but to bring people back into a right relationship with God. It is only through accepting the truth of His Word, as delivered by His messengers, that we can experience true transformation. 2 Timothy 3:16 says, "All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness." Embracing God's Word and His messengers will lead us to a life of righteousness and holiness.
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Summary:
The message of repentance and acceptance of God's prophets is crucial for every believer. The rejection of God’s messengers leads to destruction, as it is a rejection of His truth and His Word. Religion without a relationship with God is a trap, and those who walk in this false security will ultimately find themselves deceived. It is time for those who claim to follow Christ to heed His Word, accept correction, and walk in the truth of the Gospel.
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Conclusion:
As we consider the state of the world today, we must ask ourselves: Are we truly listening to the voice of God, or are we rejecting His messengers? The prophets are not sent to bring destruction but to lead us to repentance and salvation. Let us choose to listen, humble ourselves, and allow God's Word to correct and direct our lives. May we embrace the truth of the Gospel, and not fall into the trap of religious hypocrisy.
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Call to Action:
I urge you today to reflect on your relationship with God. Are you truly listening to His Word and accepting the messengers He sends? If you are walking in rebellion or indifference to His correction, it is time to repent and turn back to Him. The time for complacency is over; now is the time to live in obedience to God's call and to walk in His truth.
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Final Word of Encouragement:
If you have found yourself caught in the snare of religion without relationship, know that God is calling you back to Himself. His mercy is endless, and He desires to restore you to a place of peace and righteousness. Do not reject the Word of God; embrace it, and allow it to bring transformation to your life.
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Salvation Prayer:
Heavenly Father,
I come before You in repentance. I have sinned and fallen short of Your glory. I acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Your Son, and I believe in His death and resurrection for my salvation. I ask You to forgive my sins, cleanse my heart, and guide me in Your truth. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit and help me to walk in obedience to Your Word. I surrender my life to You, and I commit to living for You from this day forward.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
