Imagine, if you will, the stranger I introduced in my previous post arrives on the scene today – November 21, 2023. He comes into the midst of moral relativism, cultural confusion, societal perplexity, religious plurality, and political dissension and division. He comes into the arena of human activity and behavior that is, in essence, as it was in the days of the judges: every man did what was right in his own eyes. He comes into a world steeped with the idea that there is no absolute truth, except for the truth that there is no absolute truth. (That, however, is a contradictory statement: if there is a truth that there is no absolute truth, then that truth would be absolute. The argument caves in upon itself!)

His heart is broken as he sees life – innocent, unborn life – destroyed, aborted, murdered. He witnesses the lack of moral consciousness as people go out of their way to protect the life of animals while at the same time wantonly taking the life of humans, who bear the image of the living God.

He is further saddened by the reckless disregard for the authority of Scripture by those who embrace lifestyles and behaviors that are clearly denounced in the Bible. Of course, when they believe that there is no source of absolute truth, then they feel comfortable in believing what they wish and acting in ways that are to their own liking and preference. He stands firmly on the Biblical principle of marriage being between man and woman.

As he continues to observe the actions and activities of the human family, he is deeply troubled by the way so many show a total disdain for the Bible’s teaching about human sexuality. Scripture teaches that God created male and female, period. Yet, as he looks intently on the affairs of man, he sees men identifying as women, and women identifying as men. He witnesses the concerted efforts of those who would destroy the family structure as described in the Bible. His heart is torn by those living in relationships that are forbidden in Scripture.

As his eyes continue to take in the sordid affairs of mankind, he sees hatred and animosity in every direction. Blacks hate whites; whites hate blacks; Arabs hate Jews; Jews hate Arabs. Hatred runs deep and seems to be growing unabated.

He has now come into this world which has for the most part rejected the teachings of Scripture. And sadly, so many who proclaim to still believe in the Bible constantly reject the teachings found there by their acceptance of so many practices and behaviors that are clearly denounced by the Bible’s teachings.

Now, for just a moment, think about this stranger coming to your house. He is there, standing at the door, gently knocking, hoping to be given entrance. Would you feel comfortable letting him in? Would you feel at ease in his presence? Would he feel the warmth of your welcome, or would he experience the coldness of heart? Would he find you living according to the teachings of the Bible, or would he find you embracing beliefs and behaviors which are contrary to Scripture? Would he sense a spirit of love toward your fellow man, or would he witness a spirit of hatred toward someone of a different ethnicity? Just how would you feel if this stranger came for a visit?

Well, in all honesty, he does. He is always standing at the door, always knocking, always seeking entrance. But he is not going to force his way in. Have you left him standing at the door? Oh, you hear the gentle knocking. You know he is there. And yet, there are things inside that you really don’t want him to see. So, he’s left outside. Waiting, waiting, waiting.

The Lord Jesus Christ is always looking, always knocking, always seeking someone to open the door and invite him in. Where is he today in your life? Are you inviting him in by looking to his word for guidance and direction, or are you leaning on your own understanding? Are you standing with him, or do you bar that door to keep him outside, at a safe distance?

Today, he stands at the door and knocks. He will come in to those who open the door. Why not do that today?

Until next time:

Blessings!