"For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." (1 Tim. 2:3-4).
Here the Apostle Paul reveals God's deep desire that all men be saved, which can only occur when they learn the truth. But how will they learn it? Although some may come to know the truth as a result of personal study, the majority will only do so when they HEAR the gospel. "How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?" (Rom. 10:14)
Which is why Jesus instructed His disciples to “Go into all the world and PREACH the gospel to every creature." (Mk. 16:15) If His followers fail to comply, few of the lost will hear the truth and be saved. Thus God's deep desire will be frustrated.
Don't misunderstand; God is aware that the majority will be lost due to their reluctance to accept the gospel. "Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it." Matt. 7:13-14
On the other hand, what about those who never have the opportunity to hear? To repeat Paul, "...how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard?" (Rom. 10:14) Like it or not, part of the responsibly lies with you and me.
"But I'm not trained to share the gospel!", you may say. Granted, but an opportunity to receive vital training will occur on Saturday, Feb. 10(God willing). (Details provided elsewhere in the bulletin.)
DO YOU DESIRE what God desires? If not, you need to take a long, hard look at your heart - 2 Cor. 13:5.
Jesus, always Jesus!
Dennis