His Existence And Ours!

When Paul was in Athens he found “that the city was full of idols.” ( Acts 17:16) With a multiplicity of gods, how would one know how to live? Would pleasing one displease another? Among these objects of their worship, Paul also noticed an altar with the inscription, “To the unknown god.” ( Acts 17:23) How could one determine the appropriate manner in which to worship that which was unknown? From this focus on the “unknown” Paul moved on in an attempt to “make known” the true God who was the Creator of the world and everything in it and was Sovereign over all. ( Acts 17:23-31) It was from Athens that Paul then went west to Corinth ( Acts 18:1), another city associated with this Greek civilization. These Christians were also familiar with a multiplicity of gods and meat sacrificed to them. Being accustomed to this former manner of belief, there was a conflict as to whether or not such meat should be eaten due to its association with idols -- even though those idols were actually nothing. ( 1 Corinthians 8:4) Reading through this eighth chapter we can see how Paul tried to bring into focus a loving approach to this matter.

In the midst of this discussion Paul stated. . .
“(5) For although there may be so-called gods in heaven or on earth -- as indeed there are many ‘gods’ and many ‘lords’ -- (6) yet FOR US there is ONE GOD, the Father, from whom are all things and FOR WHOM WE EXIST, and one Lord, Jesus Christ, through whom are all things and through whom we exist.” ( 1 Corinthians 8:5-6 ESV)

As Christians, we are among the better informed. We know there is but “one God.” We know we don’t have to compartmentalize the various aspects of our life in association with many different deities. What a relief to know a choice does not have to be made from one moment to the next which one among many we need to please, being left to hope we got it right!

Since there is only One in whom we believe, that should greatly simplify the focus of our life. However, the challenge remains for us to live in a manner clearly declaring that is our belief. The God who truly exists is the Creator and Sustainer of all life. And when we wonder about the purpose of our existence, at some point we need to come to acknowledge that our existence is not simply for ourselves, but FOR HIM! Understanding that purpose in association with our existence will have a dynamic impact on how we relate to others and the kind of activities with which we become involved. To exist FOR HIM is to glorify Him and seek to please Him in all we do and say. As we sincerely consider our existence in association with God’s existence may it be His purposes that truly exist in our life.

Have a great day THANKFUL TO KNOW THE ONE LIFE IS TO BE LIVED FOR!
Carl

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