Tuesday, February 5, 2013

Sin in Ignorance vs. Intentional Sin

Today's Reading:
  • Luke 12:35 - 12:59
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Luke 12:35 - 12:59 
Today's reading is a short one, but it comes with a dire warning that sticks out.  Jesus is talking about being prepared for the Lord's return.  He tells the disciples to be ready, for He will come when least expected.  Jesus also gives a short example of the behavior of a servant while his master is away.  Jesus says the following:
47  And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished.
48  But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly.
 Sin done in ignorance is still, no doubt, sin.  But Jesus says here that is treated lightly compared to the wrath that occurs when sin is intentionally done.  It seems to me that the more of God's word we read and study, the more we are required to discipline ourselves and follow the Lord's instructions for us.  Once we know, we are no longer ignorant.  We must obey.  That is how we show the Lord that we love him.  It can seem like a lot to take in and a lot to live up to, and I have a LONG way to go.  But the rewards are well with it -- Every time I crack open this bible and I am losing a tad bit of my foolishness and replacing it with life-giving wisdom.