Whac-A-Mole: Universalism — Monday
Proverbs 1:24-25
“I called you so often, but you wouldn’t come. I reached out to you, but you paid no attention. You ignored my advice and rejected the correction I offered.” (NLT)
We wrapped up the Whac-A-Mole teaching series on Sunday. Whac-A-Mole was a creative way to look at several “isms” that are not new, but keep popping back up in our culture throughout the ages. Sunday’s message was about Universalism. Universalism generally refers to the belief that, ultimately, everyone is saved. Many Universalists believe in Jesus’ death on the cross, and His resurrection. But they believe this work of grace automatically covers everyone. Therefore, all of who have lived, and will live, are already reconciled to God. Other Universalists actually believe in Hell, but not with any sense of permanency. They believe anyone in Hell will be drawn back to God and therefore redeemed at the appointed time.
As we’ve seen throughout this teaching series, most untruths and deceptions contain just enough truth to sound plausible. And let’s face it, there are concepts we might be drawn to because we would prefer not to imagine unpleasant outcomes. If everyone is saved, whether or not they choose to believe in God and follow Jesus, then Jesus’ death on the cross was unnecessary. We can’t ignore the possibility that people can reject Him.
The Bible gives us a truthful and honest glimpse of some people who chose not to accept God’s reign over their lives, or to take Jesus up on His invitation to follow Him. These examples, a couple of which we’ll look at this week, can help clear up any misunderstanding that God would choose to “send people to Hell.” In order for love to be love, it must be freely offered, but with the possibility that it can also be fully rejected. Love isn’t love if it’s forced upon a recipient.
Monday’s Reflection
Let’s begin this week’s devos by asking God to create in us again a longing for those we know who are not following Jesus. As you pray, see who God brings to mind.
