“And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. So He said, ‘Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God, but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had.’”
October 27, 2024
I have visited Pompeii—the ruins of a magnificent civilization. Pompeii was buried under volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted back in biblical times. The scenery truly captures the moment: You can see how people lived in that culture by examining the buildings, but you can also see the bodies of people who lived in this place and were caught by this devastating eruption. You can even see the remains of a man and woman on the floor of their home who died surrounded by and clutching gold coins and expensive jewelry. In seeking to hold worldly treasures, they lost their lives.
Jesus said, “For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36). The truth is, that thing you’re holding onto instead of God will not get you far; it is temporary. I want you to know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord. And once you know Him, you start a new investment in eternity with riches that will never fade or spoil.
Surrender to God the worldly treasures or frivolous spending habits you’re holding onto and seek to store up treasure in Heaven instead.
Just as plants need certain essentials to grow—light, water, and fertile soil—so do new Christians, babes in the faith. Without these essential basic truths of the faith, they will never establish strong roots or bear fruit. What Every Christian Ought to Know is a valuable volume for new Christians and young disciples and a suitably instructive resource for believers of all ages. This new paperback edition includes discussion questions for personal reflection or group study.