By: Bro. Stephen Umukoro
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The call from God to reconcile erring human track to himself through the body of Christ, is without prejudice, discrimination nor favouritism. Acts 10:34-35. Thus, our adversary, Satan the devil is not happy that people are coming out of a state of sinful nature into a state of grace to become new creature in Christ Jesus. 2 Cor. 5:17. So like a powerful criminal kingpin or boss who operate behind the curtain see to it that his nefarious plan is accomplish through lying, signs and wonders Rev. 13:13-14, 2 Thess. 2:4 through his influence and power, he is using people to establish denominational diversity (churches of man) littered the corners and crannies of our cities, town and villages, advertising different names, since they have the word “church” added to their coined names. Members are taught to believe and claim to be part of the body of Christ. Various churches according to some persons offer them the opportunity to make choice. So, all over the world, billions of people are under denominational captive.
Some are of the opinion that different churches are like different roads leading to a mountaintop therefore it does not matter which of the road one chooses to follow as all lead to the top. So, to help sincere seeker of truth comprehend and overcome this confusing phenomenon. Jesus in the book of Matthew 7:13-14 taught his disciples and other followers saying, “enter ye at the straight gate, for wide is the gate and broad is the way that lead to destruction and many there be which go in there at. Because straight is the gate and narrow is the way which leadeth unto life and few there be that find it”. In this figurative narration, was Jesus saying that only unbelievers, that is – idol worshippers, Islamic religion members, practitioners of Spiritism, occultism, mystics, African religious followers etc. are on the broad way? Whereas, those who believe in God no matter what denomination they belong with their erroneous doctrine and practices are on the narrow that lead to eternal life? Immediately, after stating that there are only two roads, Jesus warned beware of false prophets which come to you in sheep clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves – Matthew 7:15. Was Jesus referring to prophets of Baal or to prophets of other religions? No, but to Christendom prophets. If someone is called a prophet who claim that Jesus is Lord, he will be called a Christian and no an unbeliever.
More so, Jesus added “Not everyone that said to me Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven, but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven” – Matthew 7:21. Jesus also said, “but in vain they do worship me teaching for doctrine the commandment of men” – Matthew 15:9. It is crystal clear that the broad way is denomination and other religious bodies. While the narrow road is the body of Christ. Which according to Christ few will find it. As members of the Lord’s church we are among the few, who has found the narrow road. That will take us to our text – Matthew 22:1-11.
Figuratively, the story of Jesus depicts the kingdom (the church) and her members, the King represent God. The Son is Jesus Christ. Those who were invited, but fail to honour the invitation and their remnant who slew the king servants are ancient Israelites who rejected Jesus – read Matthew 22:8-10. The book of John 1:11-12 says that He came to his own and his own received him not. But as many as received Him to them He gave the power to become the sons of God even to them that believe on his name. in verse 11-12, the king came in to see the guests, he saw then a man which had not on a wedding garment, and he said unto him friend how camest thou in tither not having a wedding garment and he was speechless. All of us gathering here this morning represent those good and bad guests who attended the ceremony. Who is this man without a wedding garment? The man without wedding garment is an impostor in the church and the garment represent and unrepented heart. So, to find the narrow way is one thing. Had to live, follow, keep and abide by the law and precept hedged in, that make the road to be narrow is another thing. Many are called few are chosen Jesus concluded. The question is, if the Lord comes now will you be among the few chosen ones? How tragically sad it will be for a brother or a sister in the kingdom who received teaching and words of admonition regularly, sing, pray with brethren, give cheerfully. Partake on the Lord’s Table and be found not worthy to receive eternal. Work out your salvation with fear and trembling. Apostle Paul advise us in Philippians 2:12. The way is full of challenges. The challenge to build a distinct Christian personality. The challenge to present our bodies a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable unto God – Romans 12:1. The challenge to quit unhealthy habit which you have developed. The challenge to live a life devoid of wilful sin. The challenge to be submissive and be obedient to the will of God. Matt. 6:8. The challenge for spiritual growth. The challenge to follow the footstep of Jesus 1 Pet. 2:21. The challenge to be a vessel of honour meet for the master’s use 2 Tim. 2:21. The challenge to overcome the inclination of a fleshy frame of mind Rom. 8:8. Above all, the challenge to be among the few chosen ones – Matt. 22:14. For us not to be carried away with the concept that we are already save as member of the Lord’s church, Apostle Paul reminded us of what happened to the ancient Israel 1 Cor. 10:1-12.
Few are chosen – remember the destruction of the first world, only eight (8) souls were saved. What about Sodom and Gomorrah, only Four (4) persons were taken out of the city before destruction. Nation of Israel journeyed to the promise land, only Joshua and Caleb entered the promised land among the elderly ones who left Egypt. God is no respecter of Person Acts 10:34-35. The time has come that judgement must begin at the house of God and if it first begins with us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God. And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and sinners appear?
May the Lord help us to work out our salvation with fear and trembling so that we can be among the few chosen one.
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